News Releases

Juan Montes faces more than 26 years in state prison
if convicted of all charges

VAN NUYS, Calif. – A 26-year-old man has been charged with 36 felony counts in connection with a month-long string of commercial burglaries at eateries in and around North Hollywood beginning in October.

“These repeated break-ins inflict substantial harm on businesses and the communities that depend on them,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said. “Whether the victimized businesses are part of a chain or a neighborhood staple, every burglary disrupts operations, threatens workers’ sense of safety and impacts the surrounding community. My Office will pursue full accountability to ensure these businesses and the people they serve are protected.”

Juan Montes (dob 5/15/99) of North Hollywood is charged with 33 felony counts of second-degree commercial burglary, one felony count of attempted second-degree commercial burglary and two counts of felony vandalism involving more than $400 in damage in case 25VWCF02068.

Montes pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Nov. 18. His preliminary hearing setting is scheduled for Dec. 8 in Department 112 of the Van Nuys Courthouse. He is being held in lieu of $1,825,000 bail.

Between Oct. 12 and Nov. 15, Montes is accused of riding a bicycle to 36 food establishments across the East San Fernando Valley, mostly in the middle of the night, breaking in and stealing money and property. In some cases, the alleged break-ins caused damage to the businesses. He was arrested on Nov. 15 after being found riding a bicycle following four alleged burglaries.

If convicted as charged, Montes faces more than 26 years in state prison.

The case is being prosecuted by the Van Nuys Branch and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department’s North Hollywood Division.

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.