Federal prosecutors have charged three alleged gang members and one alleged gang associate in connection with the fatal shooting of off-duty Los Angeles Police Department officer Fernando Arroyos during an attempted robbery.
Luis Alfredo De La Rosa Rios, 29, Ernesto Cisneros, 22, and Jesse Contreras, 34, are reportedly members of the F-13 gang. Rios’s girlfriend, Haylee Marie Grisham, 18, has also been charged.
Incident Overview
According to the complaint, Arroyos was house-hunting with his girlfriend when a black pickup truck approached. Rios and Cisneros allegedly drew firearms and demanded items from both Arroyos and his girlfriend, including jewelry.
A gunfire exchange reportedly occurred between Arroyos and the two suspects, resulting in Arroyos collapsing. He was transported to a hospital by Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies, where he later died.
The four accused were allegedly present at the scene during the robbery and shooting. They face charges of violent crime in aid of racketeering, which could lead to a potential death penalty or a minimum life sentence in federal prison without the possibility of parole.
Officer’s Background
Arroyos, aged 27, had a promising career with the LAPD, having served for three years in the Wilshire Division. He was reportedly enjoying a day off with plans for future investments when the incident occurred.
Survived by his mother and stepfather, Arroyos was described by LAPD Chief Michel Moore as an only child with a bright future ahead of him. Moore emphasized the tragic circumstances of his death, which arose from what appeared to be a street robbery.
The F-13 gang is characterized as a large, multi-generational street gang that has previously faced federal investigations, including significant racketeering cases. The press release provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office did not indicate any prior connection between Arroyos and the suspects.
