Two men lean out of a black SUV with a stylized L and basketball logo on a dark LA street at dusk near Hollywood Hills

Los Angeles Men Arrested After Alleged Takeover of Lakers SUV

Los Angeles men were taken into custody over the weekend after police say they seized a Los Angeles Lakers vehicle without permission.

Suspects

The two men, both 27-year-olds, were identified as Trey Rose and Samson Nacua, the brother of Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua.

The Vehicle

The incident involved the SUV of Lakers forward Adou Thiero, a player who had been seen in Milwaukee earlier that month.

Investigation Begins

Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department were alerted when the vehicle was traced to the One Hotel on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood.

Security Footage

Security footage revealed the men valeting the car and then entering the hotel, prompting a swift investigation.

Arrest

Using the footage, deputies identified the suspects and located them shortly thereafter, leading to their arrest on suspicion of taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent.

Department Statement

The sheriff’s department released a statement that read: “During the initial investigation, it was discovered that suspect Nacua took the vehicle from the Wilshire location, and suspect Rose was the driver when they arrived at the Sunset location.”

Charges

Both men face a charge of taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent, a misdemeanor under California law.

Legal Representation

It is currently unclear whether either suspect has retained an attorney or is speaking on their behalf.

Context

The article was published on December 17, 2025, with an update on December 18, 2025 at 10:23 a.m., according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Additional Details

The incident took place over the weekend, but the exact day was not specified in the report.

Significance

The suspects’ arrest demonstrates the department’s commitment to enforcing vehicle-theft laws, regardless of the victim’s prominence.

Black SUV parked with faded Lakers logo and handcuffs on seat hinting at arrest near Milwaukee skyline

Vehicle History

Adou Thiero had his SUV taken from a Wilshire location before it was moved to the hotel.

Tracking

The vehicle was tracked to the One Hotel, a well-known establishment on Sunset Boulevard, prompting the deputies’ arrival.

Valeting Explained

The sheriff’s department confirmed that the suspects had valeted the car, a term meaning they had cleaned and polished it before entering the hotel.

Footage Impact

The security footage captured the entire sequence, allowing deputies to identify the suspects quickly.

Coordination

The suspects were arrested shortly after being identified, demonstrating efficient coordination between surveillance and law-enforcement units.

Current Status

Both men remain behind bars pending further legal proceedings.

Photographic Context

The article includes a photograph taken on November 15, 2025, showing Adou Thiero in the fourth quarter of a game against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Photo Relevance

While the photograph is unrelated to the arrest, it provides context about Thiero’s recent activities.

Statement Details

The sheriff’s department statement did not mention any witnesses or additional evidence beyond the security footage.

Motive and Compensation

No details about the suspects’ motives or whether they were compensated for the vehicle were provided.

Broader Issue

The case underscores the importance of vehicle security measures for high-profile individuals.

Law Enforcement Monitoring

Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor similar incidents across the state.

Legal Consequences

The arrest of the two men serves as a reminder that vehicle theft remains a serious offense with legal consequences.

Future Information

As the investigation proceeds, more information may emerge regarding the suspects’ legal representation and potential charges.

Industry Implications

The incident highlights the broader issue of protecting personal property in the entertainment and sports industries.

Primary Agency

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department remains the primary agency handling the case.

Key Takeaways

  • Los Angeles men arrested after allegedly taking Lakers forward Adou Thiero’s SUV without consent.
  • Both 27-year-olds face vehicle-theft charges; one is brother of Rams receiver Puka Nacua.
  • The case illustrates ongoing concerns about vehicle security for high-profile individuals.

The arrest of the two men underscores the seriousness of vehicle theft and the swift response of law enforcement in Los Angeles.

Author

  • My name is Olivia M. Hartwell, and I cover the world of politics and government here in Los Angeles. I’m passionate about helping readers understand the decisions, policies, and political dynamics that shape our city, state, and nation. I aim to make complex political topics accessible and engaging for everyone.

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