Full Notification

MEDIA ADVISORY

Novato Police Department
Adam McGill, Chief of Police

Novato Police Arrest Three and Cite One; Multiple Stolen Vehicles Recovered

For Immediate Release:
February 21, 2017

On the morning of February 20, 2017, patrol officers responded to a call for service at America’s Best Value Inn. Upon arrival, an officer became aware of a stolen car in the parking lot, not related to the call for service, through the automated license plate reader system (ALPR) in the patrol vehicle. The stolen car was parked and unoccupied at the time and officers kept the car under observation. The stolen car later left the parking lot and was quickly stopped by officers. Subsequent to investigation, 39 y.o. suspect Mary Ripple, the driver, was arrested for suspicion of vehicle theft, possession of stolen property, driving on a suspended license, and possession of narcotics and narcotics paraphernalia. 46 y.o. suspect Steven Hart, the passenger, was cited and released for possession of an unlawfully altered imitation firearm.

Also occurring yesterday, Santa Rosa Police Department officials contacted the Novato Police Department to advise that a vehicle which had been stolen in Santa Rosa about an hour prior was being tracked through GPS by its owner. They further advised that the vehicle was now reportedly in the area of Clay Court in Novato. Officers responded to the area and located the stolen vehicle parked on Alameda Del Prado near Clay Court. 44 y.o. suspect Jason Lefor was contacted outside of the stolen vehicle and in possession of the vehicle keys. 24 y.o. suspect Amanda Evans was found inside the vehicle. Both suspects were arrested and booked at Marin County Jail for suspicion of vehicle theft and possession of stolen property.

The Novato Police Department currently operates several patrol vehicles equipped with ALPR technology. The ALPR system can recognize license plates that have been entered into the stolen vehicle database. NPD also wishes to remind community members to always keep cars locked when parked, and to retain possession of your car keys.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Novato Police Department (415) 897-4361 at any time.