Two suspects managed to bypass a security door to a downtown loft building and then walk into three different, occupied lofts on March 31, according to Los Angeles Police Department officials.

“This close call is a reminder for all residents to follow security protocols, like verifying someone’s right to access before granting them entry,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of detectives for the Central Police Station.  “The most expensive, high-tech system can be ineffective simply by someone holding a door open for a stranger.  That puts your whole building at risk.”

At the Nabisco Lofts, while workmen fixed pipes outside the building, a man in his forties and a woman in her thirties entered the building as a resident was leaving. In the next few minutes, the intruders walked into three separate lofts only to find someone present each time.  They left without taking any property.

Police warn residents to lock their doors even when home and check the peep hole before opening the door.

“Had these doors been locked, the burglars might have knocked to see if someone was home before trying to bypass the lock.  If a resident calls through the door, the burglar will usually make an excuse and leave.”

The man was described as bald, nearly six-feet-tall, and more than 250 pounds, wearing glasses.  The woman was five-feet-six-inches tall, 180 pounds, with braided hair and wearing high-top shoes. They drove away in a black Chevy Avalanche.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Mike Mazzacano, Central Burglary Unit, at (213)972-1231.