Orange County, California – Pinoy Pam’s Best, a cherished Filipino restaurant in Orange County, has overcome months of hate crime vandalism thanks to the relentless support of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) and the resilience of its owner, Pamela Perez.
Throughout 2023, the restaurant endured repeated vandalism. Shattered glass and damaged property became a recurring nightmare for Perez. She had to replace destroyed items and cover broken windows multiple times, resulting in thousands of dollars in damages. Despite these setbacks, Perez remained steadfast, supported by her family, and refused to let the vandalism shutter her business.
The breakthrough came when Deputy Tyler Carrillo of the OCSD arrested the suspect, 28-year-old Lake Forest resident Larry John Abraham Jr. During a routine patrol, Carrillo spotted Abraham, who matched the description of the primary suspect. Abraham pleaded guilty to six counts of felony vandalism with hate crime enhancements and will serve one year in jail, followed by probation until 2026.
The OCSD – Lake Forest Police highlighted their commitment to justice on Facebook, stating, “This case underscores our dedication to protecting our community and ensuring justice for victims of hate crimes.“
Pinoy Pam’s Best, located at 23635 El Toro Road, has been serving authentic Filipino dishes for over a decade, becoming a pillar of the Lake Forest community. Owner Pamela Perez, a former caregiver, began her journey in a small food court, expanding to a beloved restaurant known for dishes like bulalo and lechon belly.
Perez expressed gratitude for the unwavering community support, which has been vital throughout their ordeal. With the perpetrator behind bars, customers eagerly anticipate continuing to enjoy the flavors of home at Pinoy Pam’s Best.
