Media Contact:  Sgt. Hauptmann
Office: 818-548-3140
Cell: 818-299-1565
Email: chauptmann@glendaleca.gov

Drug Dealing Still a Non-Essential Business

Glendale, CA: Four males arrested on various narcotics charges, one male also in possession of a loaded stolen handgun.

On March 26, 2020, Glendale Police Detectives observed what appeared to be hand to hand narcotic sales transactions taking place from a vehicle parked on the 6500-block of San Fernando Road.

The four individuals involved, later identified as 22-year-old Andre Melikyan of Glendale, 26-year-old Justin Lee of Los Angeles, 21-year-old Arotin Aslanian of Glendale, and 33-year-old Martik Panoosian of Glendale, were all detained at the scene.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the following arrests were made:

Melikyan, the occupant of the vehicle parked on the 6500-block of San Fernando Rd, was arrested for narcotics sales (Heroin).  Lee was arrested for carrying a loaded firearm in public and illegal possession of narcotics.  Aslanian was placed under arrest for being in possession of firearm parts and a loaded high capacity magazine.  Panoosian was arrested for illegal narcotics possession.

The Glendale Police Department encourages people to remain home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  LA County guidelines prohibit social gatherings and require social distancing when engaged in essential activities.  Engaging in non-essential activities exposes households to unnecessary risks of spreading infection.

Besides being illegal, drug dealing continues to fall under the guidelines of a “non-essential business.”

Our officers continue to proactively patrol the city, respond to calls for service, and serve the community.  Keeping Glendale safe is our top priority!

Please help us in keeping Glendale safe by reporting suspicious activity to 911 if it is an emergency, or call (818) 548-4911 if it is a non-emergency; remember, stay home and stay safe!

Glendale, known as the “Jewel City,” is one of the largest cities in Los Angeles County. With a population of over 200,000, Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and offers limitless opportunities. It is the home to a vibrant business community, with major companies in healthcare, entertainment, manufacturing, retail, and banking.

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