Full Notification

HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – March 6, 2020 – The Hollister Police Department arrested a suspect on March 5^th after an investigation into a series of thefts from vehicles.
 
On February 28^th, Hollister officers responded to the area of Valencia Dr. regarding the report of a theft from an unlocked vehicle. The victim reported that a laptop and other personal items were taken from a vehicle in front of their house. Officers were able to obtain surveillance footage from a nearby residence depicting a person of interest in the case.
 
The surveillance footage was posted on HPD social media accounts and circulated within the community. Members of the community contacted the Hollister Police Department with leads about the possible identity of the suspect depicted in the photograph.  Officer Frates was able to follow up with the leads and develop enough probable cause to obtained a search warrant for the suspect’s house.
 
On March 5^th, Hollister patrol staff conducted a search warrant in the 700 block of Le Mans Dr. Jose Romero (39 years old) was contacted and arrested. A search of his residence revealed some of the stolen items from the original report.
 
Romero was booked in to the San Benito County Jail on charges including Receiving Stolen Property and Grand Theft.
 
The Hollister Police Department would like to thank those members of the community who came forward to provide information to the police.  Surveillance cameras and vigilant neighbors are a big part of keeping our city safe.  Our partnership with the community is essential to help prevent and solve crimes. 
 
Anyone with information regarding these investigations is requested to contact the Hollister Police Department at 831-636-4330. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at
(800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
 
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Prepared by:  Bo Leland, Sergeant                                                            
Approved by:  Carlos Reynoso, Interim Chief of Police