Two Simi Valley men were arrested Jan. 29 for allegedly stealing a police officer's purse containing her badge and gun.

On Jan. 28 the officer, 39, of Simi Valley, who is employed by a Los Angeles County law enforcement agency, reported to the Simi Valley Police Department that her purse with her badge and gun were stolen from her vehicle in the 5000 block of Placerita Drive.

According to police reports, a resident later found the badge near the 118 Freeway and Stearns Street and returned it to the officer's agency.

The resident had seen two male suspects in the area where the badge was recovered.

Two suspects matching the description were found to be living in the 5300 block of Cochran Street.

When officers arrived at the home, they found a 17-year-old male juvenile who matched the witness's description.

When searching the juvenile, officers found the stolen handgun— which was loaded—on his person.

After additional investigation, police arrested Clarence Lathan, 18, of Simi Valley in connection with the theft.