LAGUNA BEACH, CA – On January 04, 2024, at 3:46 a.m., a Laguna Beach Police Department police officer conducted patrol checks of the businesses along Laguna Canyon Road.  Laguna Beach Police Department has increased patrol checks in this area due to multiple recent commercial burglaries.

The officer observed a vehicle leaving a closed business and conducted a traffic enforcement stop based on a vehicle equipment violation.  The officer observed various items in the vehicle which heightened the officer’s suspicion. 

At the conclusion of the investigation, the driver, Joseph Hernandez, a resident of Chino Hills, was arrested for burglary, possession of stolen property, and additional charges.  Officers were able to determine ownership of the stolen equipment ($20,000 value) and return the items to the owners.  

The passenger who also resides in Chino Hills, is a career criminal currently on probation.  He is being investigated by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for related charges.

This single traffic enforcement stop solved this burglary and various other burglaries since November. 

 Anyone with information regarding the burglary and thefts is urged to contact the Laguna Beach Police Department at 949-497-0701.