Los Angeles, California – A career criminal who previously served time for a brutal beating in Massachusetts broke into the official residence of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass over the weekend. The intrusion occurred while Mayor Bass, along with her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild, were asleep inside the home on April 21. The suspect, Ephraim Matthew Hunter, smashed a rear glass door around 6:40 a.m., causing significant damage estimated between $5,000 and $10,000.
Hunter, 29, was quickly apprehended by the police after the glass door was shattered. District Attorney George Gascón expressed relief that Mayor Bass and her family were unharmed during the break-in. He emphasized the importance of the safety and security of all residents, including public officials, in the community.
Gascón stated that Hunter’s actions indicated a deliberate targeting of Mayor Bass, as he was aware of her presence inside the residence. Hunter exploited a security shift change to gain access to the property, displaying a calculated approach to the burglary.
Despite claims from Hunter’s family about his mental health issues and misunderstanding of the situation, he faces charges of felony first-degree residential burglary with a person present and vandalism. He is currently held on a $100,000 bail and could potentially face up to 13 years and 4 months in prison if convicted.
This incident marks the second burglary Mayor Bass has experienced in the past two years. In a separate incident during her 2022 campaign, two individuals stole handguns from her home. The suspects in that case were sentenced to prison time for burglary and grand theft.
The recent break-in at Mayor Bass’s residence underscores ongoing concerns about rising crime rates in Los Angeles. Critics have pointed to District Attorney Gascón’s approach to court cases as contributing to the city’s law enforcement challenges. Gascón’s policies, which include restrictions on pursuing harsh penalties for gang members, have sparked controversy and opposition within the community.
Hunter is due back in court on May 6 for a preliminary hearing as the investigation into the burglary continues. The case raises questions about security measures at high-profile residences and the need for comprehensive mental health support for individuals involved in criminal activities.