• American Legion Crime Victims

Around 4 a.m. (and in less than 8 minutes) two people with gloves, masks and hoods did a smash and grab at the American Legion Post 200 on Grand Avenue. 

Police tape cordons off the scene.
Photo courtesy Vitalia Gonzalo 

They took "a huge safe" as it was described by Vitalia Gonzalo who had a meeting at the location in the morning.

"[They] dragged it through the American Legion from the office out the front door and left with it," she added.

Reports are that there was only a small amount of money in the safe, but many important papers regarding the American Legion were stored in the safe too.

I asked if there was anything else about the crime I could share, and I was told, "They even stole beers out of the fridge before they left. Despicable!"

The American Legion emblem laying in shards of glass from the busted front door.Photo courtesy Vitalia Gonzalo 

A toy drive was set for today, and they aren't going to let this indecent act prevent them from pushing forward. There are many worthy causes looking for help this time of year, but if you're in the area, consider showing some community spirit and dropping off a toy for their drive.

Address: 18871 Grand Ave, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
Phone: (951) 678-7777

If you have any info regarding this case, please call the Riverside Sheriff's Office at 

Lake Elsinore Police Department
non-emergency:

(951) 245-3300

Or use the Crime Tip webpage with this LINK.