(File Photo – SouthPasPD)
The South Pasadena Police Department responded to several incidents between July 15 and July 21, 2025, leading to multiple arrests and one officer sustaining minor injuries. Below is a summary of the key events from the past week.
By News Desk
Counterfeit Currency, Fleeing Suspect, and Drug Bust
On July 15, 2025, at approximately 4:13 pm, officers were dispatched to a local restaurant in the 700 block of Fair Oaks Avenue after a suspect, later identified as Lamar Peton, attempted to pay for services using a counterfeit $100 bill. Peton, a 34-year-old resident of North Hollywood, fled the scene on foot and entered a nearby establishment.
As officers closed in on him, Peton discarded several counterfeit bills while running. When officers caught up with him, he resisted arrest, resulting in a physical altercation. A taser was deployed to subdue him, and he was taken into custody.
Peton was arrested on multiple charges, including possession and passing of counterfeit currency, resisting arrest, and assaulting a police officer. A search of Peton’s vehicle, which was parked nearby, revealed additional counterfeit bills and a large quantity of illegal narcotics. After being treated for minor injuries at a local hospital, he was booked on felony charges. Authorities noted that Peton has an extensive criminal record involving violent encounters with law enforcement.
During the pursuit, one officer fell and was struck by a passing vehicle. Fortunately, the officer sustained only minor injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.
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Suicidal Individual Rescued from Roof
On July 19, 2025, at approximately 6:35 pm, South Pasadena officers responded to a residence in the 200 block of St. Albans Avenue following a report of a suicidal individual threatening to jump from a rooftop.
Upon arrival, officers found the individual seated on the edge of the roof, approximately 25 feet above the ground. Officers swiftly established communication and began de-escalating the situation. After a prolonged dialogue, one officer was able to safely pull the individual away from the edge.
Paramedics from the South Pasadena Fire Department provided medical assistance for pre-existing injuries, and the individual was then transported to a local hospital for a mental health evaluation.
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BB Gun Incident at Metro Station
On July 21, 2025, at approximately 11:41 am, officers responded to a report of a suspect brandishing a silver handgun at the South Pasadena Metro Station. After interviewing witnesses, officers were able to identify the suspect, Antonio Rivera, a 20-year-old from Los Angeles, who fled the scene on foot.
Rivera crossed several streets during the foot pursuit before being apprehended a short distance away. While fleeing, Rivera discarded what appeared to be a handgun in a parking lot in the 700 block of Mission Street. Upon closer inspection, the weapon was determined to be a BB gun. However, the chamber contained a real but empty shell casing, which contributed to the weapon’s realistic appearance.
Rivera was arrested and is scheduled for arraignment at the Alhambra Courthouse in October.
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Call for Public Assistance
The South Pasadena Police Department urges anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward. For the counterfeit currency case, the public can contact the police department at (626) 403-7265. For the suicidal individual case, tips can be provided to (626) 403-7270. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).
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