Two adults were apprehended at a San Rafael department store on December 9 after attempting to shoplift with a minor in tow. Acting on a tip at approximately 7:45 PM, officers responded to a call at the Northgate Mall, where they observed the suspects concealing merchandise.
Upon arrival, a female suspect was promptly arrested after police discovered she was wanted on two felony warrants. Recovered from her purse were items reported as shoplifted. In a separate location within the store, they detained a male suspect, who was found carrying an unserialized 9mm "ghost-gun" firearm, possession of which represented a legal breach for a convicted felon currently on CDCR parole. The San Rafael Police Department detailed the incident in a statement, highlighting the rapid response to prevent the theft.
TWO SUSPECTS ARRESTED, GUN RECOVERED, AND SHOPLIFTING PREVENTED:
— San Rafael Police Department (@SanRafaelPolice) December 10, 2023
On 12/09/23, at 7:45 PM, SRPD received a call of two adults with a young juvenile that were observed layering and concealing merchandise for the purpose of shoplifting at a department store at the Northgate Mall in… pic.twitter.com/fYqKzyWZNz
The male's illicit hardware was seized, validating the concern that such tools can too easily slip into, and further embolden, the hands of those with malintent. Identifying him as a repeat offender with a documented history brought an added layer of urgency, reminding the public of the tenacity with which our collective safety is often hedged and safeguarded by our police force.
The young juvenile, who had been dressed in the store’s clothing by the adult suspects, was also found during the engagement. All the merchandise entrusted to their young accomplice was duly recovered.
Subsequent to the arrests, the female suspect was booked regarding her outstanding felony warrants, while her male counterpart was booked on charges of felony possession of a concealed firearm, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and violating CDCR parole terms. As for the juveniles, they were released into the custody of a guardian.
