An ATM technician on a routine service run in Alameda had nearly $15,000 in cash swiped from his vehicle last Thursday, turning an everyday stop on Park Street into a high-dollar heist, according to police. The break-in happened around 5:45 p.m. in the 1200 block of Park Street, and officers later tracked down a vehicle tied to the theft in San Francisco, where they recovered the money.
Police Recover Cash, Arrest Driver After Alleged Tail Job
Alameda police told KRON4 that a suspect had followed the technician before the break-in. When officers searched the located vehicle, they say they found the stolen cash along with narcotics. The driver was arrested on suspicion of vehicle burglary and possession of narcotics, though the department has not publicly released the person’s name.
Auto Crime Keeps Pressure On Alameda Streets
The hit on the ATM worker lands in the middle of a steady churn of vehicle-related crime in the city. In its April month-in-review, the Alameda Police Department logged 48 auto thefts and 42 recovered stolen vehicles, a snapshot of how often property is walking away on four wheels. City of Alameda data also show the department continues to field thousands of calls for service every month.
Cash On The Move, And How Police Say To Protect It
For anyone whose job involves moving money, police recommend avoiding leaving cash unattended in vehicles, parking in well-lit and busy areas, and using company security protocols or escorts whenever possible. Employers that deal with cash are urged to look at armored transport options and scheduling that cuts down the time large sums of money sit inside a car or van.
Investigators Still Working The Case
Alameda police say the investigation is ongoing and are asking anyone with information to call the department’s non-emergency line. The initial report on the incident is available at KRON4.
