"Charges have been filed against a West Covina police officer accused of stealing cash from motorists during traffic stops beginning in 2024, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced on Tuesday, Nov. 25. Officer Jose Garcia, 38, of Long Beach, stole money during three separate traffic stops, prosecutors said. In the first incident, on Sept. 21, 2024, Garcia allegedly searched a driver's vehicle, removed about $600 from the motorist's wallet and then made an arrest."
"On Nov. 23, 2024, he is accused of taking roughly $100 from a passenger's backpack during another traffic stop before releasing everyone with only a verbal warning. In the most recent case, on Feb. 8, 2025, Garcia allegedly took about $300 from a vehicle's center console and let the driver go with a warning. Garcia is charged with one felony count of misappropriation of public funds and one felony count of grand theft by embezzlement, along with two misdemeanor counts of petty theft."
Officer Jose Garcia, 38, of Long Beach, is accused of stealing cash from motorists during three separate traffic stops between Sept. 21, 2024, and Feb. 8, 2025. Allegations include removing about $600 from a driver's wallet after a vehicle search, taking roughly $100 from a passenger's backpack, and taking about $300 from a vehicle's center console while releasing motorists with warnings. Garcia faces one felony count of misappropriation of public funds, one felony count of grand theft by embezzlement, and two misdemeanor counts of petty theft. He was released on a promise to appear for arraignment and faces up to five years if convicted. West Covina police pledged accountability and expressed concern about violated public trust.
Read at www.sgvtribune.com
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