Following a break-in at the Beverly Hills home of singer-songwriter Lionel Richie, Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) Chief Mark Stainbrook praised the city’s law enforcement for its fast and successful response.
“Through the swift and professional actions of our officers, the Beverly Hills Police Department successfully apprehended the burglary suspect before additional harm could occur,” Stainbrook said in a message to the Courier. “This arrest reflects our steadfast commitment to safeguarding the community and serves as a clear message that anyone who seeks to victimize our residents will be held accountable without delay.”
The incident occurred on Aug. 22 just past midnight, according to a representative for the department. Police were called to the 100 block of Copley Place after Richie’s security system was activated.
Richie was home at the time of the attempted break-in. Officers searched the surrounding area and arrested a suspect, 38-year-old Michael John Bond, for residential burglary near Wilshire Boulevard and Beverly Glen.
BHPD could not confirm whether any items were taken from Richie’s home.
Representatives for Richie declined to comment on the incident.
Richie, who is known for his decades-long career in the music industry, began his path to fame with the Motown group Commodores. The four-time Grammy Award winner is known for hit singles including “Endless Love,” “Hello” and “We Are the World.”
Days after the break-in, Richie confirmed that he will return to the televised singing competition “American Idol” as a judge for its upcoming ninth season. He has served in the role since 2018.
Richie has long touted the benefits of living in Beverly Hills. Speaking to the Courier in 2021, he reflected on the ways in which the community enriches the lives of residents.
“In Beverly Hills, we have … just about every imaginable walk of life,” he said. “It’s all religions and all cultures. It’s this incredible community of people. The world is in conflict, but we live in Beverly Hills where everyone is from wherever.”
The investigation into the break-in is ongoing.
