3 arrested in theft of $213,000 worth of musical instruments from trains in LA

LOS ANGELES — Two men and a woman suspected of stealing more than $213,000 worth of Yamaha musical instruments from Union Pacific trains in September 2022 were taken into custody Wednesday.

Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division’s Cargo Theft Unit, with assistance from the Los Angeles Port Police and Union Pacific Police Department, arrested three individuals during a joint operation while executing felony warrants.

The suspects were identified as a 47-year-old resident of Long Beach, and two 28-year-olds from Indio, according to the LAPD.

Police reported that the investigation originated from a theft in September 2022, during which three individuals stole approximately $213,497 worth of Yamaha musical instruments from Union Pacific trains and subsequently sold the items on eBay.

According to police, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed multiple felony charges against the suspects on March 28, including grand theft cargo and receiving stolen property.

Anyone with additional information regarding the thefts was urged to contact the Commercial Crimes Division at 213-486-5920 between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Calls during non-business hours or weekends should be directed to 877-527- 3247. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800- 222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org