LAPD uses Facebook, Twitter, videos to find Lakers violence suspects

Local police have already arrested 46 people but expect that number to grow. Officials warn it could take months to identify and arrest the suspects.

The Los Angeles Fire Department's arson unit on Friday released onto YouTube video of people smashing and setting fire to a taxi cab -- asking the public for help identifying those responsible for the damage. As of Monday, that video had gotten almost 200,000 views, and officials said they’ve gotten several solid tips.

LAPD officials said they believe it's worth the effort to track down the assailants -- even if it takes weeks or months.

“In the age of phone cameras and digital video devices, it has in essence deputized the public in fighting camera,” said Lt. Paul Vernon. “It has added to the maxim that police are the public and the public are the police.”