Crossword Genius

Charged a lot in Los Angeles retreat (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

laden

'charged a lot' is the definition.
(loaded or charged with a lot)

'los angeles retreat' is the wordplay.
'los angeles' becomes 'LA' (abbreviation).
'retreat' becomes 'den' (both can mean a lair or hideout).
'la'+'den'='LADEN'

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for laden that I've seen before include "Of ship, having taken on cargo" , "Weighed down with much cargo" , "bearing burden" , "Burdened, loaded" , "charged a lot" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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