Las Vegas police have apprehended a man accused of carrying out more than 30 burglaries across the Las Vegas Valley. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Cedric Hassan, faces a total of 35 felony charges following a string of break-ins that occurred over a five-month period. Authorities revealed that these crimes primarily targeted Asian restaurants, with the financial toll estimated at around $100,000, including stolen goods and property damage.
Suspect with a Lengthy Criminal Record
Hassan’s arrest marks a significant development in a case that has troubled the community for months. Police disclosed that the suspect has a criminal history dating back 15 years, with prior charges including stolen property offenses in 2010 and burglary charges in both 2016 and 2019. The investigation into this latest series of crimes gained traction following a critical tip provided to law enforcement.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Deputy Chief Jose Hernandez acknowledged the community’s role in aiding the investigation, stating that the public’s assistance was instrumental in solving the case. Hernandez also emphasized the police department’s unwavering commitment to pursuing justice, noting that “no stone [was] left unturned” in the effort to bring Hassan to justice.
Targeted Businesses and Investigation Details
The crimes spanned dozens of locations across the Las Vegas Valley, with Asian restaurants being a consistent target. This pattern helped police connect the burglaries and identify Hassan as the primary suspect. Authorities believe that Hassan’s actions caused significant financial losses not just in stolen cash and goods but also in damages to the establishments.
The investigative breakthrough came after law enforcement received a tip that corroborated with evidence collected over the course of several months. The tip provided a critical lead, enabling investigators to link Hassan to the series of burglaries.
Police Statement and Community Impact
Deputy Chief Hernandez used the opportunity to issue a stern warning to potential offenders. “Let this be a reminder to anyone who thinks that they can prey on the citizens of this community and commit crimes in our city,” Hernandez said. “The LVMPD will follow all leads and leave no stone unturned, as we did in this investigation, until we can affect an arrest.”
The news of Hassan’s arrest brings a sense of relief to business owners who have faced repeated threats to their livelihoods. The targeted nature of the burglaries raised concerns within the local Asian-American community, highlighting vulnerabilities in their businesses.
Ongoing Investigation
While Hassan is now in custody and is expected to make his first court appearance tomorrow morning, the LVMPD emphasized that the investigation remains active. Authorities are continuing to gather evidence and assess the full scope of the damages and stolen property. The police have encouraged anyone with additional information to come forward to aid the ongoing efforts to bring closure to the case.
This arrest underscores the importance of community collaboration with law enforcement in addressing crime and maintaining public safety. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by small business owners and the resilience of a community determined to protect its members.
