Persistent Detective Work Leads to Arrests of 2 Burglary Suspects
SAN RAFAEL— An uptick in residential burglaries leaving little evidence behind frustrated law enforcement. However, persistent detective work paid off with the recent arrests of two residential burglary suspects.
Fourteen burglaries occurred during June, July and August; primarily in the Terra Linda district of the city. One detective was assigned to investigate this rash of burglaries.
Most of these burglaries happened at unoccupied homes in the morning hours, after residents left for work. The victims were typically robbed of jewelry and various electronic devices.
The criminals followed their own nefarious routine. They typically entered through the backyards of properties. They forced entry by either breaking a window or prying open a door.
Once inside, they apparently acted very quickly without leaving much evidence behind. Nevertheless, the detective followed up on leads and finally was able to piece together a case by locating some witnesses.
As result of information provided by witnesses, a warrant was obtained to search a residence located in Richmond last month. Evidence found inside the home then enabled the detective to obtain two arrest warrants.
San Rafael detectives accompanied by detectives from the Marin County Major Crimes Task force arrested two men on September 11. Both suspects were apprehended in Richmond.
The two 19-year-old men, Francisco Cervantes Vasquez and DeShawn Williams were booked at Marin County Jail. Though they are no longer in police custody.
Vasquez and Williams are each facing charges for multiple counts of residential burglaries, and conspiracy to commit crimes.
The investigation of all 14 burglaries remains open. Anyone with information can call Detective James Dooley at 415-485-3000. Tips also can be left at http://www.srpd.org/tips.
