The Manhattan Beach Police Department and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department are seeking additional information to aid their joint investigation into investment fraud and thefts allegedly committed by a Redondo Beach resident known as “James Bruce Rice.”
Rice, 52, whose aliases include “James Turner,” “Jimmy Turner” and “Jimmi Turner,” is believed to have defrauded victims in Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Beverly Hills, Hacienda Heights, Alaska and Alabama, MBPD Public Information Officer Stephanie Martin said.
Police believe Rice sought victims on dating websites and set up in-person meetings. Once he established a level of trust, Rice defrauded victims by inviting them to invest in fraudulent ventures, such as diamond dealing and catering, Martin said.
In one case, Rice stole a victim’s jewelry, stole a car and resold it in Arizona, she said.
Rice is currently in the custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for an unrelated grand theft in Manhattan Beach.
Police believe that there may be more victims of Rice, who is described as a white male, 6-feet-1, 270 pounds with blond hair and blue eyes.
Those with information are encouraged to contact MBPD Detective Mike Allard at 310-802-5125 or LASD Detective Billy Lovell at 562-347-2660.
