Go Unlimited with Magzter GOLD
Get unlimited access to 9,500+ magazines, newspapers and Premium stories for just
Try GOLD - Free
Ex-officer accused of home invasion, kidnap for ransom
Los Angeles Times
|August 13, 2025
Eric Halem and another suspect plead not guilty in crypto, cash and jewelry theft.
Prosecutors have charged a former Los Angeles police officer in a kidnapping for ransom that occurred when he was still an active reserve officer.
The December incident, which authorities said involved the former officer and three other men, began with a Koreatown home invasion.
Eric Halem and another man are accused of then kidnapping a man and forcing him to turn over $200,000 in cryptocurrency.
Halem, 37, was arrested Thursday afternoon by members of the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division and held without bail.
Halem served about 13 years as an officer before becoming a reserve officer. In addition to kidnapping for ransom, which carries a potential life sentence, he is charged with a separate count of kidnapping, along with four counts of robbery in connection with the home invasion.
"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," Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. Nathan J. Hochman said in a statement.
This story is from the August 13, 2025 edition of Los Angeles Times.
Subscribe to Magzter GOLD to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MORE STORIES FROM Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
With AI, tech giants focus anew on smart glasses
More than a decade ago, pricey smart glasses that allowed people to snap photos, text and browse the web generated a lot of buzz but also resistance.
4 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
FTC sues Ticketmaster, Live Nation on resales
The Federal Trade Commission is suing Ticketmaster and Live Nation for allegedly engaging in illegal ticket vendor practices for its resale business.
2 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
U.S. mortgage rates fall to low point, but greater uncertainty may follow
Mortgage rates in the USS. extended their decline, reaching the lowest point in almost a year.
1 min
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Next governor could do a lot more on climate
Last month, I wrote that California is backsliding on climate, and that it's mostly Gov. Gavin Newsom's fault.
5 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
At security forum, defense minister asserts China's claim over Taiwan
China’s defense minister renewed threats that his country would take over self-ruled Taiwan as he opened a security forum in Beijing on Thursday.
1 min
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Son gets his first hat trick in MLS
Teammate Bouanga sets LAFC record for career goals in 4-1 win over Real Salt Lake.
2 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Watchdogs see county rule as a muzzle
L.A. County's watchdogs suddenly need to ask permission before barking to the press and public.
3 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Saint Etienne sets final mood on 'International'
With its last record, the British trio hopes to go out on top and keeps its legacy intact.
5 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Could U.S. return to Afghanistan?
President Trump on Thursday suggested that he is working to reestablish a U.S. presence at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, four years after America’s chaotic withdrawal from the country left the base in the Taliban’s hands.
2 mins
September 19, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Kershaw hangs up his cleats
Dodgers' longtime ace to retire after stellar career
5 mins
September 19, 2025
Listen
Translate
Change font size