This morning, a routine traffic stop on El Camino Real in Redwood City quickly became a bigger ordeal. At about 1 a.m., a San Mateo County Sheriff’s deputy, on proactive patrol, stopped a car over a mechanical violation and uncovered a series of stolen credit cards and personal documents from a passenger on probation for theft, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office reported.
Upon further investigation, the deputy identified the passenger as 35-year-old Damariz F. Morales, a resident of Redwood City. Because of Morales' probation status, a search was warranted, which led to the discovery of multiple stolen items. Deputies were able to reach and assist an elderly woman who had become one of Morales' victims by having her credit card taken. The deputies are now attempting to firmly identify and contact any additional victims as their investigation continues.
Morales was arrested and charged with felony theft and fraud from an elderly or dependent adult, a crime involving sums greater than $950. The specific charge cited is PC—368(D)(1), which resulted in Morales's booking into the Maguire Correctional Facility.
The Sheriff's Office urges anyone with potentially related information to come forward. Sources for making contact include the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office at 650-363-4911, or to remain anonymous, individuals can call 1-800-547-2700.
