Feds indict LAPD officer for trying to smuggle guns, ammo to Belize
An LAPD officer suspected of trying to export firearms and ammunition to Belize turned himself over to federal authorities Monday. The surrender followed months of investigation.
In addition to his job with the Los Angeles Police Department’s West L.A. Division, Officer Johnny Baltazar owns a private security firm in Belize. Last year, federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement looked into that business – and the LAPD placed Baltazar on administrative leave because he apparently hadn’t obtained the permit officers are supposed to have before they take additional jobs.
Federal prosecutors say for the Belize job, Baltazar bought 10 guns – including eight 40-caliber Glocks he’d purchased from the LAPD Academy store – and tried to ship them and more than 1,500 rounds of ammunition to the Central American country. That’s illegal.
Federal agents seized the shipment at L.A. International Airport late last month. Baltazar, who’s 50 years old, faces up to five years in prison if a jury convicts him on charges he’d unlawfully transported firearms and ammunition; he also awaits an LAPD disciplinary hearing.
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