Tips from Alert Residents Help Police Nab Burglar

Working on tips received from the public as a result of the release of a surveillance video, Belmont police detectives were able to identify the suspect in a that occurred on Sixth Avenue.

John Anthony Bentley, age 32 of Hayward was arrested Tuesday night at his home in Hayward.

In the July 10 video,  the suspect can be seen pulling up in front of a neighboring residence and then walking to the victim’s home, which is out of view of the camera.  He returns a few minutes later with a suitcase, which he loads into his vehicle and then leaves.  Numerous items were taken, including jewelry and electronics. The suitcase used by the suspect to carry the items from the house was among the items taken.

According to Belmont police spokesman, Lt. Pat Halleran,  detectives collected numerous items of evidence, including property taken in the Belmont burglary.

The vehicle shown in the video, was also found at the residence and is registered to Bentley.  Bentley was booked into the San Mateo County Jail in Redwood City on charges of burglary and possession of stolen property. 

“We were hoping that by putting the video out to the public, we would get the tip that would lead us to this suspect and that’s exactly what happened” said . 

“We would like to thank the media for getting the information on this case out to the public and thank the members of the public who came forward with information.  This is an example of the public and law enforcement working together to deal with crime,” DeSmidt added.