Full Notification

On Friday, April 6th, 2018, two young men were arrested outside of the Starbucks Coffee shop located at 1057 MacArthur Blvd after attempting to steal a patron’s laptop computer. 

Around 11:40 am, San Leandro Police Offices were dispatched to the area after reports that customers were chasing a laptop thief from the coffee shop. When Officers arrived, they located the victim and several Good Samaritans holding down the suspect who was attempting to get away. 

The 18 yr-old suspect, Paris Williams of Oakland was quickly detained by Officers. The laptop computer he attempted to steal was also recovered after he dropped it while running. 

Witnesses stated that the suspect entered the coffee shop and snatched the computer from the victim who was sitting at a table. The suspect immediately fled the store with the victim chasing behind. The commotion alerted other patrons who realized what occurred and also gave chase to assist the victim. 

The suspect tried to enter a waiting vehicle being driven by a second suspect, but he was unable to open the door. As a result, the victim and witnesses were able to grab the suspect and hold him until police arrived. 

The second suspect, 18 yr-old Berkeley resident Roosevelt Curry was also located by Police and taken into custody. 

"Laptop thefts from coffee shop patrons are becoming very popular amongst criminals," said San Leandro Police Lieutenant Isaac Benabou. "We have seen a sharp increase in this type of crime in San Leandro and surrounding areas. We urge everyone to be more aware of your surroundings as these crimes are easily preventable." 

Last week the San Leandro Police Department produced and posted a safety video on Facebook on these types of crimes. The video explains what to look for and how to prevent yourself from becoming a victim. You can see the video here by going to the link below; 

https://www.facebook.com/SanLeandroPD/videos/vb.111943215483731/1857570137587688/?type=2&theater

Both suspects remained in custody until yesterday when their case was taken before the Alameda County District Attorney. Suspect Paris Williams was charged with Grand Theft and released with a pending court date. The suspect driver, Roosevelt Curry was not charged and released from custody.

If you become a victim of this type of crime or any other violent crime, please notify the police immediately by call 9-1-1. Please refrain from taking action and attempting to confront or chase after the suspect(s). These situations can become dangerous and possibly deadly. Be a good witness, take note of suspect(s) descriptions, clothing, a direction of flight, getaway vehicle and license plate information. Your safety and the safety of others is most important in these circumstances.