A Los Angeles Lakers SUV was allegedly taken without consent over the weekend, leading to the arrest of two men, one of whom is the brother of Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua. The incident unfolded in West Hollywood, where deputies responded to a call about a stolen vehicle. The vehicle in question belonged to Lakers forward Adou Thiero. The suspects were identified and detained after a swift investigation. The case has drawn attention from both the sports community and local law enforcement.
The Incident
The alleged theft began when the SUV was reported missing by its owner. Authorities received a call from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department about the vehicle’s unauthorized removal. The SUV had been taken from an unknown location before the call. The owners had not granted permission for the vehicle to be moved. The incident was classified as a vehicle theft under state law.
Law Enforcement Response
Deputies were dispatched to the One Hotel in West Hollywood, where the vehicle was tracked. The hotel became the focal point of the investigation as the SUV was found on its premises. The suspects had valeted the car and entered the hotel premises. While reviewing security footage, deputies were able to identify the suspects and locate them shortly thereafter. They were arrested on suspicion of taking the SUV. The arrests were made without incident, and the suspects were taken into custody.
Vehicle Tracking and Hotel Scene
The vehicle tracking system flagged the SUV’s location at the One Hotel. The hotel staff confirmed that the car had been present in the parking lot for several hours. The suspects had been seen in the hotel lobby with the vehicle. The hotel’s security cameras captured the suspects entering the building. The footage was reviewed by law enforcement officers on the scene. The evidence linked the suspects to the vehicle and the hotel.
Security Footage and Identification
Security footage provided clear images of the suspects approaching the SUV. Deputies cross-referenced the footage with known identities. The video showed the suspects handling the vehicle and walking into the hotel lobby. The footage also captured the suspects’ clothing and vehicle license plates. This visual evidence was crucial for the identification process. Deputies used the footage to confirm the suspects’ identities before making the arrests.
Suspect Profiles
The arrested men are 27-year-old Trey Rose and 27-year-old Samson Nacua. Samson Nacua is the brother of the Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua. Both men are known to the local community. No prior criminal history is mentioned in the report. The suspects were charged with taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. Their ages and relationship to a professional athlete were highlighted in the arrest notice.
Legal Proceedings
Both suspects face a charge of taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent, a misdemeanor under California law. The charges were filed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The suspects are being held in county jail pending further proceedings. No plea has been entered at this time. The case will proceed through the court system for arraignment. Legal representation for the suspects has not been confirmed.
Current Status
At present, the suspects remain behind bars in the county jail. It is unclear whether they have secured an attorney to speak on their behalf. The case has not yet progressed to a court hearing. Law enforcement officials have not released additional statements about the suspects’ legal status. The authorities are awaiting the next court date. The community is awaiting further updates.
Impact and Context

The incident highlights the vulnerability of high-profile vehicles to theft. It also underscores the importance of rapid response by law enforcement in theft cases. The involvement of a professional athlete’s family member adds a layer of public interest. The case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of unauthorized vehicle removal. It also reflects the collaborative effort between hotel security and police. The incident may prompt reviews of security protocols in similar establishments.
Community Reaction
The local community has expressed concern over the theft. Fans of the Los Angeles Lakers and Rams have commented on social media. Some residents have urged the police to expedite the legal process. Others have called for increased security measures in West Hollywood. The incident has sparked discussions about vehicle safety. The authorities are monitoring community sentiment closely.
Key Takeaways
- Two men, including the brother of Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, were arrested for taking a Lakers SUV without consent.
- The vehicle was found at the One Hotel in West Hollywood, where deputies identified the suspects via security footage.
- Both suspects face misdemeanor charges and remain in county jail while awaiting court proceedings.
Investigation Details
Investigation details reveal that the vehicle was last seen parked near a popular nightlife spot in West Hollywood. Deputies canvassed the area for witnesses. No eyewitnesses reported seeing the suspects leave the vehicle. The investigation also included a review of nearby surveillance cameras. The data collected helped confirm the timeline of the theft. The findings will be used in court filings.
Potential Motives
Potential motives for the theft remain unclear. Law enforcement has not released statements regarding why the suspects targeted the SUV. Some speculate that the vehicle’s high value and visibility made it an attractive target. Others suggest personal connections may have played a role. The case remains open for further inquiry. No additional suspects have been identified.
Public Statements
Public statements from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department emphasized the seriousness of the offense. Officials urged anyone with information to come forward. The department also reiterated its commitment to protecting property rights. No statements were released by the suspect’s legal counsel. The community has been encouraged to stay informed through official channels. The case remains a priority for local authorities.

Hi, I’m Ethan R. Coleman, a dedicated journalist and content creator at newsoflosangeles.com — your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and stories from Los Angeles and beyond.
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