A spate of burglaries in Central Contra Costa County culminating in over $300,000 in stolen goods has met its match after law enforcement detained a suspect, officials said. The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office announced that 26-year-old Gilberto Ramirez of Merced, CA, was apprehended after a string of home invasions that saw jewelry, designer purses, and weapons lifted.
The arrest, resulting from a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, followed a dramatic car chase on January 25. Having pinpointed Ramirez as their prime suspect, Contra Costa County detectives spotted him barreling north on I-5 near Corning, California. The suspect's vehicle failed to stop despite their intervention, which led to a pursuit, according to the sheriff's office's Facebook page. Assistance from the California Highway Patrol was enlisted, culminating in the suspect's vehicle crashing and Ramirez fleeing on foot before being caught.
Alongside Ramirez, a juvenile accomplice was also taken into custody, with her identity shielded owing to her minor status. Detectives executing search warrants at various locations connected to Ramirez discovered property believed to have been stolen in the Contra Costa raids. Efforts are underway to identify and return these items to their rightful owners.
The Tehama County Sheriff’s Office and CHP were acknowledged for their help in the chase that led to a foot bail by the suspect after crashing his vehicle. As investigators work to establish links between Ramirez and other similar crimes in the area, Ramirez sits in Merced County jail, facing multiple charges. These offenses include burglary, felony evasion, and violations concerning weapons.
Reporting the arrest, Henry K. Lee confirmed Ramirez’s suspicions connected to the crime spree, emphasizing the valuable assistance of Tehama County Sheriff's deputies and CHP officers in capturing the alleged burglar. The Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about these cases to come forward and contact their Investigation Division or send tips through their designated channels.
Gilberto Ramirez, 26, suspected in spree of Contra Costa County burglaries netting $300K in stolen jewelry, purses & guns, arrested w/help by @tehama_S @Cotcounty sheriff @CHP_Northern after car & foot chase near Corning, per @CoCoSheriff pic.twitter.com/86GTAoswDZ
— Henry K. Lee (@henrykleeKTVU) February 3, 2024
