by Garth Meyer
A theft of an estimated $2,000 in cosmetics from a CVS Pharmacy on Artesia Boulevard July 31 led to an injured employee, a three-hour manhunt through nearby backyards, and three suspects being arrested.
A fourth suspect escaped.
A one-block area of Blossom Lane, Nelson Avenue and Rindge Lane was cordoned off soon after patrol officers responded to the 911 call at 6:41 p.m.
According to Redondo Beach P.D. Detective Mike Snakenborg, a manhunt ensued, concluding with the arrest of three suspects, each from Los Angeles, including a 17-year-old juvenile.
The fourth suspect was not believed to have fled the area.
During the theft, CVS employees attempted to intervene. One employee was knocked to the ground, and kicked, before the suspects ran away.
The stolen items were recovered, along with merchandise stolen 20 to 30 minutes earlier from a CVS in Torrance.
The robberies were similar to recent incidents in which suspects with bags targeted specific items such as cosmetics, for resale on the street. ER
