Los Angeles, California – An early morning burglary at Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ home over the weekend led to the arrest of a career criminal with a history of violent offenses in Massachusetts. The incident occurred while Mayor Bass, her family, including her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild, were sleeping inside their official mayoral residence on April 21. The suspect, Ephraim Matthew Hunter, allegedly smashed a rear glass door around 6:40 a.m., causing significant damage.
Hunter, 29, was quickly apprehended by police after breaking into the residence, leaving him bloodied from the incident. The LA District Attorney’s Office announced on Tuesday that Hunter was charged with felony first-degree residential burglary with a person present and vandalism totaling between $5,000 and $10,000. Authorities believe Hunter deliberately targeted Mayor Bass, knowing she was inside the home at the time of the break-in.
District Attorney George Gascón expressed relief that Mayor Bass and her family were unharmed in the burglary but emphasized that such violent intrusions would not be tolerated. Gascón stated that the perpetrator’s swift apprehension and accountability were top priorities. Hunter’s actions indicated a deliberate intent to target the mayor, as reported by KABC. He exploited a security shift gap to gain access to the property, entering the residence through the back after jumping over a fence, according to interim LAPD Chief Dominic Choi.
Hunter’s motive for the burglary, including any plans to harm Mayor Bass, remains unclear. Despite claims from Hunter’s family about his mental health struggles and his belief that he was in danger, authorities charged him with serious offenses that could lead to over a decade in prison if convicted. This incident marks the second time in recent years that Mayor Bass has been the victim of a home break-in, highlighting ongoing security concerns for public officials in Los Angeles.
The burglary underscores rising crime rates in Los Angeles, coinciding with criticism of Gascón’s lenient approach to criminal cases. His policies, including refraining from pursuing harsh penalties for gang members, have drawn widespread opposition and concern among law enforcement officials. Hunter is currently detained on $100,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on May 6. The case has reignited discussions about public safety and the challenges faced by officials like Mayor Karen Bass in maintaining security in their residences.