LA gang members arrested for conspiracy to commit burglary in Placentia

PLACENTIA, Calif. (KABC) -- Three Los Angeles gang members were arrested in Placentia after being caught allegedly plotting a burglary.

Placentia police responded to several calls about suspicious activity in the 1000 block of Lawanda Place and the 100 block of Islandia Drive at about 10:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Police said one of the incidents included a suspect peeping into a window of a home. When a citizen confronted the suspect, the suspect gave the excuse that he was looking for his dog and quickly left the area in a maroon-colored SUV.

Responding officers eventually found the maroon Chevy Trailblazer and stopped the vehicle near Placentia Avenue and Nutwood Street.

Police said three men were inside the SUV, one of which was lying down in the back.

The suspects were identified as 19-year-old Billie Ray Lothridge of Inglewood, 27-year-old Trayvon Deshawn White of Lakewood and 26-year-old Reginald Van Oliver II of L.A. All were confirmed L.A. gang members on parole or probation, authorities said.

After searching the Trailblazer, officers found cocaine, a black replica handgun, pepper spray, a ski mask, gloves, a window punch, pawn slips and fake construction uniforms.

All three were arrested for possession of cocaine, possession of burglary tools and conspiracy to commit residential burglary.

Placentia police said suspects looking for the opportunity to commit burglaries often look into windows, backyards or knock on the front door to residences to determine if the homeowner is present. The public is urged to call police and report any activity that appears suspicious, authorities said.