Suspect arrested after search and chase at AutoZone

A man was arrested in connection with the looting of an AutoZone earlier this week and the police chase through Los Angeles, authorities said Friday.

Danny Sanchez, 24, was charged with organized aggravated shoplifting, reckless flight from a pursuing police officer’s car and second-degree burglary, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said in a press release.

“Mr. Sanchez’s alleged actions are part of a disturbing trend that not only harms local businesses but also threatens the safety of our community,” District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement. “Such brazen behavior will not be tolerated.”

Sanchez, police said, was part of a mob that broke into an AutoZone near Century Boulevard and Hoover Street around 1:30 a.m. Monday and stole more than $1,000 worth of merchandise. Sanchez then allegedly fled the scene, prompting police to launch a chase.

The authorities eventually arrested him and confiscated the stolen goods.

Sanchez pleaded not guilty on Wednesday and is scheduled to appear in court in Compton on June 27, authorities said. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of three years and eight months in prison.

The break-in at AutoZone occurred after a street takeover occurred near the store, police said. Video from the scene showed a mob of about 50 people near the store, some covering their faces with hoodies and masks. They opened the security gate and forced their way in before fleeing with the stolen merchandise.