Above Image: Evidence | Courtesy of San Francisco PD
On the evening of October 25th, San Francisco Police Department Officers on patrol near Turk Street and Nido Ave noticed a vehicle being lifted from the ground with a floor jack and multiple individuals near the vehicle. Luckily these observant officers had experience and knowledge related to the method and execution of of catalytic converter thefts.
As the Officers approached the suspects, one of them took off running. The suspect was later identified as Hayward resident David Rivera (38). After verbally warning the suspect to stop and get to the ground a foot chase ensued. The suspect was followed by the Officers over multiple fences where they lost sight of him. Officers also confiscated a “ghost gun” or a gun with no serial number at the scene.
Above: Evidence | San Francisco PD
Additional Officers were able to detain 2 of the other suspects identified as Terry Gainey (52), Jennifer Barnett (51). Both suspects are also Hayward residents. At the scene Officers observed a drill, saw, and catalytic converter in clear view.
A short time later Rivera was located hiding in some bushes in the area and was then detained.
At the scene the sedan that was being tampered with had the catalytic convertor partially removed and hanging loose. There was a cutting tool lying near the vehicle. The Officers were able to locate the owner of the vehicle and inform them of the incident.
Rivera is being charged with grand theft, burglary in the second degree, tampering with a vehicle, conspiracy to commit a felony, vandalism, receiving stolen property, possession of burglary tools, possession of a loaded firearm, unlawful purchase, receipt disposal, sale, offer for sale, alteration, removal or obliteration and constructing a firearm.
Gainey is being charged with grand theft, burglary in the second degree, tampering with a vehicle, conspiracy to commit a felony, vandalism, receiving stolen property, possession of burglary tools, possession of a loaded firearm, unlawful purchase, receipt disposal, sale, offer for sale, or possession with knowledge of change, alteration removal or obliteration and constructing a firearm.
Barnett is being charged with grand theft, burglary in the second degree, tampering with a vehicle, conspiracy to commit a felony, vandalism, receiving stolen property and possession of burglary tools.
The 3 suspects were taken to the San Francisco County Jail.
The investigation is still ongoing. If you have information regarding this investigation please contact the SFPD Tip Line at 415-575-4444 or Text Tip to TIP411 and begin the text message with SFPD. Reference SFPD Case # 220-733-617 These tips and information are anonymous.
