Two individuals, Njeri Harambe, 28, of Oakland, and Antonio Taylor, 42, of San Francisco, were arrested by the San Mateo and Menlo Park Police Departments in California recently. They were connected with a case of auto burglary reports in San Mateo.
Multiple charges, including second-degree burglary, grand theft, conspiracy to commit a crime, and vandalism, have been filed against the apprehended individuals.
It all began when on October 16, an individual broke a car window, stole a purse, and fled. A 911 call quickly ensued from the observant witness which helped the authorities to rapidly follow the situation. The victim's purse and luggage containing electronics and jewelry, valued at over $130,000, were stolen from her rental vehicle, as per the San Mateo Police Department.
An invaluable tip received regarding the suspects' whereabouts gave the San Mateo Police Department the necessary information. This led to a collaboration with the Menlo Park Police Department, resulting in the capture of both suspects.
In response to this recent incident, the San Mateo Police Department has issued reminders for residents to use basic vehicle safety measures, foster general awareness, and reduce the occurrence of car break-ins. It was recommended to secure their vehicles by rolling up the windows completely, engaging car alarms, and smartly avoiding isolated, dark parking areas per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The investigations to recover the stolen property are ongoing.
