Los Angeles, CA – A 37-year-old former Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reserve officer is facing serious charges after prosecutors say he participated in a violent home invasion and kidnapping for ransom targeting two victims in Koreatown late last year.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office alleges that Eric Halem, of Porter Ranch, and another man entered a Koreatown apartment around 2:30 a.m. on December 28, 2024.
Allegations of Theft and Assault
According to prosecutors, the suspects handcuffed the victims, transferred funds from their cryptocurrency account, and stole cash and jewelry before fleeing the scene. Two other suspects allegedly waited outside as getaway drivers.
As per reports, all four suspects were later arrested and charged.
Multiple Suspects and Charges
Halem is charged with kidnapping for ransom, first-degree residential robbery, and home invasion robbery. He is being held without bail.
Also charged are:
- Luis Banuelos, 27, of Jurupa Valley, Riverside County – held on $1.3 million bail
- Pierre Louis, 26, of Attleboro, Massachusetts – held on $1.3 million bail
- Mishael Mann, 20, of Los Angeles – held without bail
Halem and Mann pleaded not guilty during their arraignment Monday. Banuelos and Louis entered not guilty pleas at their June 11 arraignment. A preliminary hearing for all four is scheduled for September 24 at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.
Previous Criminal Case
This is not Halem’s first legal trouble. Earlier this year, he and his brother were charged in a luxury car insurance fraud scheme involving a Bentley convertible. The California Department of Insurance accused him of falsifying an accident report and submitting staged photos to support a claim.
LAPD records show he was removed from the department in March 2025.
Statement from Prosecutors
“Whether you once wore a badge and served in law enforcement, or not, if you take part in violent crimes, you will be held fully accountable,” said District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. “This office will pursue justice for victims without fear or favor.”
If convicted as charged, each defendant faces life in state prison.
Law Enforcement Accountability
Cases involving current or former law enforcement officers in violent crimes can deeply impact public trust. Legal experts emphasize the importance of transparency and consistent prosecution in holding all individuals — regardless of their background — to the same legal standard.
Community advocates argue that such cases reinforce the need for strict vetting processes, ongoing ethics training, and accountability measures for those in positions of public trust.
What steps do you think should be taken to prevent former or current law enforcement officers from abusing their authority? Share your views in the comments section.
