Santa Cruz police arrest man in connection to multiple ATM heists
Photo: Santa Cruz PD
Originally published 8-24-21 via Facebook
by Santa Cruz Police:
“Early this morning, Santa Cruz Police arrested a suspect connected with several ATM heists that occurred over the past couple of days after a five-hour-long standoff with law enforcement.
On Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at 12:30 am, Santa Cruz Police responded to a commercial business alarm in the 2100 block of Mission Street. Upon arrival, officers found the male suspect, later identified as Mathew Phillips, inside the business. Mr. Phillips barricaded himself inside and refused to come out.
In the five-hour-long standoff, SCPD utilized a recon robot, basically a remote control camera, and called in a drone operated by the Sheriff’s Office, which allowed our team to adjust strategy and succeed in the arrest.
Officers made entry into the business with the assistance of the SCPD K9 Unit and safely took Mr. Phillips into custody. During the standoff, Mr. Phillips caused thousands of dollars worth of damage attempting to create an escape route.
Officers arrested Mathew Phillips for commercial burglary, felony vandalism, and resisting arrest. SCPD Detectives are investigating Mr. Phillips (51 years old), who is on probation out of San Joaquin County for burglary, and his connection to other commercial burglaries in the area.”
