WEST COVINA – Criminal charges have been filed against a West Covina police officer who allegedly stole cash from motorists during three traffic stops, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday.

Jose Garcia, 38, of Long Beach, is set to be arraigned Jan. 28 on one felony count each of misappropriation of public funds and grand theft by embezzlement, along with two misdemeanor counts of petty theft, according to the District Attorney’s Office.

The charges stem from allegations that money was taken during three traffic stops between September 2024 and Feb. 8, 2025.

Garcia allegedly stole $600 from a wallet during a Sept. 21, 2024, traffic stop in which he arrested the alleged victim, according to the District Attorney’s Office.

He is also accused of stealing abo

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