Yesterday, a routine theft spiraled into a notable arrest in Half Moon Bay as San Mateo County Sheriff's deputies caught a trio of suspects with a history of theft charges. According to a press release from the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, the incident unfolded at the Safeway near Main Street and North Cabrillo Highway after two suspects were seen lifting items and escaping in a southbound SUV.
An alert deputy, upon noticing a vehicle that matched witness descriptions, stopped the SUV and found four people inside, with two in possession of stolen goods and narcotics paraphernalia. The investigation revealed that the three male passengers were wanted on warrants, while the female driver was identified and let go. Joshua P. Taylor, 36, was detained for a bench warrant, Anthony S. Stone, 39, faced multiple charges, including shoplifting and possession, along with probation violation, and 34-year-old Michael T. Lelis was arrested for shoplifting, giving false information, and other charges. Stone and Lelis's prior convictions add a felony layer to their shoplifting under Prop 36.
The Sheriff's Office now requests that anyone with additional details about this case step forward. Deputy Lee-Cardenas can be reached via email at [email protected], while anonymous tips are welcomed through their tip line at 1-800-547-2700.
