A man's alleged shoplifting spree at a San Mateo mall spiraled into a cascade of additional charges when police discovered drugs, a stolen vehicle, and a smattering of credit cards in different names. The suspect, identified as Brandon Deguarda, 36, of San Carlos, was initially detained by Macy's Loss Prevention at the Hillsdale Shopping Center this past Monday evening after he was accused of stealing roughly $600 worth of merchandise.
According to the San Mateo Police Department, when officers arrived on the scene, they were met with an attempt at deception; Deguarda reportedly provided a false name to the authorities. It was quickly uncovered that the suspect had arrived at Macy’s with the intent to commit theft. An ensuing search revealed suspected methamphetamine and identification bearing his true name, leading officers to unearth a warrant out of Napa County tied to Deguarda.
The plot thickened as the police probe extended to the parking lot, where they located a car allegedly driven by Deguarda. Officers found that the vehicle, along with its license plate, had been reported stolen. Inside the car, substances suspected to be marijuana and Psilocybin mushrooms were found alongside drug paraphernalia. The officers also uncovered several credit cards bearing the names of various individuals that did not belong to the suspect.
Deguarda was arrested on numerous charges and booked into the San Mateo County Jail. Among the charges detailed by the San Mateo Police are possession of a stolen vehicle, impersonating another to deceive, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, unauthorized use of credit or personal information, shoplifting, possession of marijuana, and serving an outstanding warrant.
