Crime & Safety

Armed West Covina Man Sought for Alleged Kidnapping

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is searching for 43-year-old Joe Martinez, who allegedly kidnapped an ex-girlfriend from her Pico Rivera home.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is searching for a 43-year-old West Covina area man who they suspectt kidnapped her ex-girlfriend from her Pico Rivera home.

Authorities are looking for Joe Martinez, 43 after the victim had been located by Los Angeles County Sheriff's investigators. She has no visible injuries.

At 6 a.m. Wednesday morning, Martinez allegedly entered Lopez’ home in the 9400 block of Burke Street in Pico Rivera and kidnapped her at gunpoint, authorities said.  The suspect reportedly knocked on the door and when a family member opened it, he walked in.  He brandished a gun and ordered Lopez to come with him.  He grabbed her by the arm and took her out to a car, authorities said.

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The suspect and victim were seen leaving the area in a small white car.

Martinez is known to frequent the West Covina and unincorporated Bassett areas.

He is about 5’8” and weighs around 240 pounds.  Lopez reported weighs 120 pounds and what she was wearing is unknown, according to the news release.

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The suspect has a criminal history and should be considered armed and dangerous. If anyone sees the suspect or the victim, do not contact him or her. Instead, make a mental note of the location and the license number if they are in a car, and call 9-1-1 from a safe location as soon as possible.

Anyone with information about the possible whereabouts of the suspect or victim is urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Pico Rivera Station Detective Callahan at (562) 949-2421. Or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org


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