SAN LEANDRO — Police officers followed a trail of GPS signals being emitted by an electrical contractor’s truck to locate and arrest two suspected thieves on November 13.
The officers were dispatched at approximately 2 p.m. when the owner reported the theft of the truck, which was being tracked by GPS traveling towards Oakland.
Police officers and detectives quickly located the stolen truck in the parking lot of a flea market at 5401 Coliseum Way in Oakland.
Detectives watched two men unloading tools from the contractor’s truck into a parked sports utility vehicle, before they abandoned the truck and drove away in the SUV.
Detectives followed the men to a shopping center near High Street in Oakland, where they detained and arrested both suspects—after one of the men attempted to run away—but was quickly apprehended by officers.
GPS technology and swift response by officers greatly contributed to locating the stolen truck, recovery of stolen tools and arrests of two suspects, police said in a prepared statement.
Both suspects arrested are San Leandro residents, and each has a prior conviction for vehicle theft.
Leroy D. Silva, a 48-year-old landscaper, and Robert D. Barton, a 54-year-old moving man, remain in custody at Santa Rita Jail, each in lieu of $45,000 bond.
Silva and Barton are charged with possession of a controlled substance, first- and second-degree burglary, grand theft, and receiving stolen property. Barton also faces additional charges for petty theft and evading a police officer.
Both men are scheduled to appear for a pretrial hearing on December 14 at the East County Hall of Justice.
