Man faces three strikes law in alleged LL Cool J burglary

 Posted on August 24, 2012 in Shoplifting, Robbery & Burglary

A 56-year-old man, who authorities describe as a transient, was arrested on suspicion of burglary after an alleged incident at the home of rapper and actor LL Cool J. Authorities say that the man broke into LL Cool J's home, where the musician/actor discovered the alleged intruder. A "knock-down, drag out" fight followed and LL cool J reportedly broke the alleged intruder's nose and jaw, according to UPI.

Police say that LL Cool J acted in self-defense and will not face any charges related to the fight. However, the other man is accused of first-degree burglary, and UPI reports that the man may also face a battery charge. Prosecutors have also brought the charges against the man under California's three strikes law, which could expose the man to a life sentence, with a mandatory minimum of 25-years.

Authorities say that the man broke into LL Cool J's home late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning. The actor/rapper says that he heard a noise, and went downstairs to investigate. LL Cool J says that as he looked for the source of the noise, a man approached him and a fight broke out between the two men. Police reportedly arrived around 1:00 Wednesday morning at the Studio City home, and law enforcement says that LL Cool J had detained the alleged intruder.

Authorities say the alleged intruder has a criminal history that includes a record of thefts, burglary, disorderly conduct and other offenses, according to the Los Angeles Times. Police suspect that the man may have been involved in other alleged break-ins in the Studio City area.

Sources:

• UPI, "LL Cool J not expected to face charges," Aug. 23, 2012
• Los Angeles Times, "LL Cool J burglary suspect faces up to 38 years in prison," Andrew Blankenstein, Aug. 23, 2012