| News - Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Three arrested in string of Willows burglaries
by Sandy Brundage
After weeks of investigation, Menlo Park police have nabbed three men allegedly behind the recent rash of home burglaries in the Willows neighborhood.
Two suspects called East Palo Alto home, 19-year-old Victor and his 18-year-old brother Ricardo Esparza. Jesus Lara, 18, resides in Hayward and East Palo Alto, according to police who announced the arrests Oct. 7.
The men are charged with three counts of burglary, according to Assistant District Attorney Karen Guidotti.
In September, describing the crime spree as "unprecedented," Menlo Park police met with Willows residents to discuss the string of break-ins.
Ten burglaries and two attempts occurred in September — nine within one week — during the hours of 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., when empty homes made inviting targets.
Investigators continue to chase leads. Police ask that anyone with information about the crimes or suspects to call detectives at 330-6364 or 330-6363.
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