Los Angeles Police Department detectives have arrested a 29-year-old suspect for knowingly buying a stolen MacBook computer, and are warning the public about similar scams involving the sale of stolen goods.

Los Angeles Police Department officers were able to arrest Abimael Garcia through a camera and tracking system built into a stolen MacBook. (photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Central Detective Division)

The suspect, Abimael Garcia, allegedly purchased the laptop from a man on the street known only as “Pelon”. A camera and tracking system built into the computer led police to Garcia at his home in the Pico Union area, where he was arrested.

“We want everyone to know, if you buy a $1,500 computer from a guy on the street for $150, it’s probably stolen,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of the LAPD’s Central Detective Division.  “And now, that computer may rat you out.”

The was made after a USC student had a computer stolen from her friend’s car on Oct. 22 near the Fashion District.

The 21-year-old victim came to the police station to report the theft, and explained that she had installed tracking software which records the user’s image and the computer’s location. The victim also provided police with screen shots of Garcia using the computer.

When located by police, Garcia explained that he met “Pelon” while working as a valet near 5th Street and Broadway.

Vernon said people should know the top items stolen from cars are electronic items like computers, GPS devices, iPods, cameras; and that knowingly buying stolen items is a crime.

Anonymous tips about people selling stolen items can be made to Crimestoppers at (800)222-TIPS, or by texting 274637 using a cell phone.