A 29-year-old man, Ephraim Hunter, has been arrested in connection with the April break-in at Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass's mansion. Hunter allegedly broke a glass door and entered the home while Bass, her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild were present. The mayor's German shepherd, Stax, intervened, delaying Hunter from accessing the bedrooms.
Mayor Bass's Home Intruder Arrested, Suspected of Targeting Elected Official
Los Angeles, CA - A 29-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the April break-in at Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass's mansion. The suspect, identified as Ephraim Hunter, allegedly broke a glass door and entered the home while Bass, her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild were present.
According to law enforcement sources, Hunter left a trail of blood after bashing the glass door and screaming "Karen!" multiple times as he attempted to access several bedrooms on April 22. Police detained Hunter before he could reach the bedrooms.
A law enforcement source told the LA Times that responding officers believed Hunter was high on methamphetamine during the incident. Interim Los Angeles Police Chief Dominic Choi confirmed that no officers were on the property during the break-in due to a routine shift change in the security plan schedule.
District Attorney George Gascón stated that prosecutors believe Hunter was specifically targeting Bass, who was home with her family at the time. However, a high-level LAPD official expressed confusion over Gascón's claim.
Hunter was held on $100,000 bail and faces two felony charges of residential burglary with people present and vandalism. If convicted, he could face up to 13 years in prison. He is due back in court on June 3.
Mayor Bass's German shepherd, Stax, successfully interrupted Hunter and delayed him from breaking into the bedrooms on the mansion's second floor. The dog allegedly did not bite the intruder.
Following the break-in, LAPD officials emphasized the importance of securing the mayor's residence. Interim Chief Choi stated that the department is reviewing its security protocols and working with the Secret Service to ensure the mayor's safety.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of elected officials and their families. Los Angeles City Councilman Kevin de León called for an investigation into the security lapse and demanded that the LAPD take immediate steps to address the issue.
The arrest of Ephraim Hunter has brought some closure to the break-in, but the investigation into his motives and potential accomplices continues. The case serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting public figures and their families from potential threats.
