Two men have been arrested in connection with a school burglary at the Santa Rosa Middle School, a case that has drawn attention due to the extensive damage inflicted upon the school's property. The Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) responded to a burglary report on Monday, according to a social media post from the department. The incident took place at the now-closed middle school campus, which serves as a Santa Rosa City Schools District (SRCS) facility for seasonal sports events.
The burglary was discovered by a basketball coach who had planned to open the gym for an open court session. Significant damage was reported, including covered windows, ransacked offices, and shattered glass — all signs of an extensive and destructive break-in. Not only was the gym affected, but also numerous administrative offices, classrooms, the library, and storage rooms suffered damage. Officers were able to quickly identify two men involved by reviewing the compromised security footage. The SRPD Downtown Enforcement Team (DET) officers recognized the suspects and managed to swiftly locate one of them.
Jonathan Delatorre, aged 35, and Robert Hamilton, aged 57, both transients from Santa Rosa, have been named as the culprits. Delatorre was caught and arrested on Monday, without incident, in the 3000 block of Cleveland Avenue. He was booked into Sonoma County Jail on charges including commercial burglary and conspiracy. Hamilton, however, eluded initial capture.
It wasn't until the following day that Hamilton was arrested in the 3100 block of Cleveland Avenue in possession of a backpack filled with SRMS iPads. His arrest led to charges that not only included commercial burglary and conspiracy but also possession of stolen property and violation of probation. A statement released by the SRCS officials estimated the damage to exceed several thousand dollars, though the precise extent is still being ascertained.
The reasons behind this burglary remain unclear as the investigation is ongoing, and officials have withheld specific details about the suspects' methods or motives. Both Delatorre and Hamilton are awaiting further legal proceedings as they remain in custody.
