Police to Display Items Stolen From Tourists

Tourists who lost belongings when a ring of thieves broke into rental cars during most of 1999 may have a crack at recovering some of the possessions.

Police are planning to display hundreds of items recovered during their recent sting operation, which led to the arrests recently of three Los Angeles men.

Det. Patricia Picker said the men had watched as visitors in rented cars stopped for a meal or sightseeing on their way to or from Los Angeles International Airport. Once a driver was out of sight, the thieves quickly broke into the car, hauling away trip mementos as well as cameras, luggage and other valuables, she said.

The arrests were made in September 1999 but police say there is some evidence that other ring members still may be operating. Police have identified and contacted some victims, but others are from out of state or another country.

Police will display the unclaimed items March 9 in the annex building of Manhattan Heights Park, 1600 Manhattan Beach Blvd. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.