LCPD Arrest Three For Burglary at Old Downtown Hotel

The old Hilton/Players Hotel/ Harrah's Hotel was the site of a burglary recently.  The once popular hot spot in downtown Lake Charles has gone from fun spot to eye sore and has now become the victim of theft.

The Lake Charles Police Department recently arrested several suspects in reference to breaking into the old hotel and stealing the copper wiring left in the hotel after it was closed.  Here is the detail account from the City police on what happenned:

On Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 4:56 AM, the Lake Charles Police Department was contacted by a security officer working at the old Players Hotel and Casino, located at 505 North Lakeshore Drive advising of a possible burglary.  Officers responded and found that unknown subject or subjects had removed a small sheet of plywood that was used to cover and secure a door located on the east side of the hotel.

Once the plywood was removed the subjects entered the abandoned hotel having full and free access of the entire building.  The subjects then tore down old ceiling tile to gain access to copper water mains and piping.

Suspects then utilized a small generator and extension cords that they had brought with them to power three power saws and began cutting and removing approximately 150 pounds of copper, worth approximately $1,500.00 to 2,000.00 from the hotel.

Arriving Officers established a perimeter and after searching the hotel and several short foot chases, officers arrested three male subjects from Beaumont, Texas.  They were later identified as:

Gavin Rashard Harmon, 20 years of age residing at 5625 Landry Lane, Beaumont, Tx.

Joseph Escallera Martin, 34 years of age, residing at 2075 Hayes Lane, Beaumont, Tx. Roderick Reion Robinson, 23 years of age, residing at 2095 Hayes Lane, Beaumont, Tx.

Each were charged with Burglary, Theft and Flight from an Officer.  Bond has been set at $21,000.00 each.

Cpl. Ross Rathburn is the lead patrol officer, Detectives Colby Thompson and Dustin Gaudet are handling the following up investigation.

Source: Sgt Mark Kraus LCPD

The sooner the city can make  a decision on what to do with the property the better.  Until then, i think i will just continue to invite unruly suspects to the property and remain and eye sore for the City of Lake Charles along I-10.