novatopolice

☀️HEAT ADVISORY:💧Stay cool this week Novato! It's going to be a warm one. Heat Advisory through Friday. High temperatures in the 80s along the coast and upper 80s to mid-90s across the interior. 🔥Hot temperatures can affect health. The people most vulnerable include older adults, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, pets, individuals experiencing homelessness, and individuals with a chronic medical condition. Prepare for Extreme Heat: 💡 Plan ahead: prepare for possible power outages and create a buddy system to check-in on friends and neighbors. 💧 Stay cool: stay indoors as much as possible, avoid direct sunlight, take cool baths/showers, or visit an air-conditioned location for relief from heat. 🫗 Stay hydrated: Drink more fluids than usual but avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks. ℹ️ Stay informed: Monitor the ongoing forecast, know the signs of a heat-related illness, learn more tips for staying cool, and stay connected with emergency officials. 🏡Take care of each other: Check on other vulnerable family members and friends; do not leave anyone (adults, children or pets) in a parked vehicle during hot weather. 💻Learn how to prevent heat related emergencies: emergency.marincounty.gov

Greatly reduce your risk of a crash by practicing the simple stuff — like basic driving habits — every time you get behind the wheel. ⤵️

For people who are 65 or older, heat can be especially dangerous. Make a plan with a friend, relative, or neighbor who will call or come check on you twice a day while it is hot outside. Go to listoscalifornia.org to learn more.

☘️Novato Police Encourages Safe St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations☘️   As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, Novato Police reminds everyone that the best way to celebrate the holiday is to plan ahead for a safe, sober way to get home. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,355 people were killed in alcohol-impaired traffic crashes in California in 2023.   “We want people to make St. Patrick’s Day memorable for all the right reasons,” said Sergeant Hall. “Before you raise a glass, make sure you’ve planned for a safe ride home, whether that’s a designated sober driver, rideshare, taxi or public transportation.”   🚔Officers will be on patrol looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.   ✨🌈 Plan for a Safe Celebration🌈✨ Before heading out for St. Patrick’s Day festivities, follow these tips to stay safe: 🍀Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely. 🍀Use Ridesharing Services, Taxis or Public Transportation: Rideshare apps and transit options are safe alternatives to driving if you’ve been drinking. 🍀Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home. 🍀Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride. 🍀Never Drive Impaired or Distracted: It’s not worth the risk – your life and others’ lives depend on it!   🍺🍷Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. 💊Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products🪴and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.   Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the @OTS_CA, through the @NHTSAgov National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Sometimes coffee just isn't enough. 🥱☕ On this National Napping Day, remind yourself that drowsy driving is dangerous. Take preventative steps to keep you and others SAFE!

🚨Man Arrested for Kidnapping a Child Earlier today (3/4), at 10:30am, Novato Police Officers responded to a report of a disturbance at a residence on Martin Drive. Officers learned the disturbance was a dispute between family members which resulted in a man kidnapping a 3-year-old child. The suspect was identified as Benjamin Buckley, a 39-year-old Novato resident, who was known to the child. It was reported that Buckley left the area with the child in a silver Saturn sedan. Novato Police Dispatch issued a countywide be-on-the-lookout (BOL) alert and initiated the protocol for a countywide roadblock to our law enforcement partners. As Novato Police Dispatch was in the process of issuing an Amber Alert, a Novato Police Officer on patrol spotted Buckley and the child exiting his vehicle on Center Road in Novato. Buckley was placed under arrest and later booked into the Marin County Jail for kidnapping, child abuse, and elder abuse. The child was located unharmed and was later reunited with their parents. A Marin County Judge authorized a bail enhancement to the amount of $500,000. A safe return is one of the greatest outcomes in cases like these. We are proud of our team for their work in locating the child quickly and safely, as every second counts. It's helpful to provide a clear photo of the missing or kidnapped person so we can share out to the community or with other agencies as needed. Sign up for emergency alerts by texting your zip code to 888-777 to receive updates on local incidents. If you see something suspicious, never hesitate to call 911 immediately. Your tip could be the piece of information that saves a life. Stay safe Novato! #npd #novatopolice #saferecovery #kidnapping #novato

Last night (3/2), around 9pm, NPD Officers were dispatched to a report of a hit-and-run collision on Marin Valley Dr. The person reporting the incident saw a dark colored vehicle that had struck multiple parked vehicles and was attempting to flee the scene. Officers responded and detained the driver who was identified as 64-year-old, Edwin Ortega-Moran. Ortega-Moran exhibited signs and symptoms of intoxication and was subsequently arrested. Ortega-Moran was later booked into the Marin County Jail on the charges of DUI, driving on a suspended license, hit-and-run, and not having insurance. A total of 5 parked vehicles were struck resulting in major damages estimated in the thousands of dollars. Driving under the influence puts everyone at risk and leaving the scene makes a dangerous situation even worse. These reckless decisions endanger lives, impact families, and will result in serious criminal consequences. 👀If you witness: • A possible impaired driver • A collision where a driver leaves the scene • Suspicious or reckless driving behavior 📞 Call 9-1-1 immediately. 📞 For non-emergencies, call 415-897-4361. Let’s work together to keep Novato’s roads safe. Drive responsibly. Plan ahead. Never drink and drive. #CommunitySafety #DriveSober #NovatoPD #SeeSomethingSaySomething #NPD

🚨CASE UPDATE: Over the weekend, Novato Police Detectives followed up on leads and examined evidence for the Highway 37 shooting. The suspect was identified as 34-year-old San Pablo resident, Donald Nunez Jr. With help from automated license plate readers and the San Francisco Police Department’s Real Time Investigation Center (RTIC), Novato Detectives tracked Nunez movements after he shot the victim. Detectives tracked Nunez to a residence in San Francisco, conducted surveillance, and wrote search warrants. On Monday (2/23), our detectives and the SFPD Tactical Team served a search warrant at a residence in San Francisco. Evidence of the crime was collected but Nunez was not found. At the same time, NPD detectives and members of the Marin County Sheriff’s Office Specialized Investigative Unit were conducted surveillance at a residence in San Pablo. On Tuesday (2/24), the Marin Regional Crisis Response Unit (a SWAT and Negotiations team comprised of Novato, San Rafael, Central Marin, and Mill Valley police officers) served a search warrant at the residence in San Pablo. Several firearms were recovered, but Nunez was not found. Yesterday (2/25), Donald Nunez Jr turned himself in at the Novato Police Department. He was arrested without incident and will be booked into the Marin County Jail. A motive for this crime is still under investigation; however, this suspect and victim were acquaintances, and this appears to be an isolated incident. The Novato Police Department thanks our community members that came forward to provide information about this investigation. We appreciate the help of our partners at the @MarinSheriff's Office, @SanRafaelPolice, Central Marin Police Authority, @SFPD, @SanPabloPolice, and @RichmondPolice with this investigation.

Distracted driving isn’t just risky — it can be deadly. Stay focused. 📲🚫

🚨TRAFFIC ADVISORY - Protest Occurring in the area of City Hall (Delong/Sherman) A protest is occurring in the downtown area of Novato today near city hall (near Delong Avenue and Sherman Avenue). 🚸Be mindful of pedestrians and drive safe & slow.

🎉Congratulations to Our Newly Promoted Employees!🎉 Today, at the NPD Promotions Ceremony, we proudly recognized the outstanding service and leadership of Sergeant Roderick and Corporal Houser as they made it official! 👏 Sergeant Roderick has consistently demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and a strong commitment to the values of the department. 👏 Corporal Houser continues to lead with integrity and excellence, setting an example for peers and the community alike. Thank you both for your continued service and congratulations on this well-deserved achievement! 🚔💙 #NPD #Novato #NovatoPolice #PromotionCeremony #LeadershipInAction #Community #LawEnforcementExcellence #Police

🚨Two Arrested During Sex Registrant Compliance Operation On Wednesday (7/23), the Novato Police Department in coordination with the Marin County Sheriff's Office and San Rafael Police Department, conducted a compliance operation on registered sex offenders. People convicted of certain sexual offenses are required to register personal information, including their address, with local law enforcement. Failure to register can lead to arrest. As part of this operation, our detectives conducted a compliance check on Spinosa Way in Novato, the residence of 70-year-old Remsen Benedict. During the check, Benedict was found to have an active federal warrant violating his probation. Investigators conducted a lawful search of a thumb drive located in his room and discovered suspected child pornography. Benedict was arrested and booked at Marin County Jail for the outstanding warrant. A criminal complaint was filed against Benedict for possession of child pornography. Later the same day, detectives responded to a residence on Santa Maria Drive in Novato to conduct a compliance check on 68-year-old Brian Moylan. During the investigation, a search of Moylan’s laptop led to the discovery of suspected child pornography. Moylan was arrested and booked at Marin County Jail for possession of child pornography. We thank our partners at Marin County Sheriff and San Rafael Police for their help ensuring sex offenders remain in compliance throughout Marin. Community members can learn more about sex offender registration requirements through the California Department of Justice’s Megan’s Law website at meganslaw.ca.gov.

🚨Crime Tip Leads to Multiple Arrests🚨 Over the weekend, multiple arrests were made in an auto burglary case, which occurred on Marin Valley Drive on 7/16. Novato Police Detectives received a crime tip last week regarding camera footage of the incident, which showed a clear view of the suspect vehicle (a yellow Mini Cooper) and license plate. This crime tip was shared with our patrol teams for awareness. On Saturday (7/19), around 11PM, a Patrol Sergeant spotted the vehicle near South Novato Blvd and Redwood Blvd. He followed it as it circled the neighborhood before parking at 7-Eleven. During the investigation, officers noticed open containers of alcohol in plain view with underage occupants. As the vehicle was a match to the possible suspect vehicle for the auto burglary, the camera footage was reviewed. It was confirmed that all three occupants were clearly identified as suspects in the prior auto burglary. Arrests: 🚔Arturo Mercado, a 19-year-old San Rafael resident – Arrested for Conspiracy & Accessory to a Crime. 🚔Miguel Mercado, a 18-year-old San Rafael resident - Arrested for Auto Burglary & Conspiracy. 🚔Freddie Nunez Guzman, a 19-year-old San Rafael resident - Arrested for Auto Burglary & Conspiracy. We would like to extend a big thank you to the community member who provided high quality video footage of the vehicle and occupants ultimately leading to the arrests in this case. This incident highlights the value of video surveillance. If you are not currently participating in our Camera Registry Program, please visit the following website to register your location today. novato.org/registeryourca… Remember to report suspicious activity immediately by calling us at 415-897-4361. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1. You can file a report online at novato.org/reportacrime. Submit a crime tip via email: crimetips@novato.org or text a tip by texting 'TIP NOVATO' to 888-777. Outstanding teamwork by all involved! #NovatoPolice #Novato #Teamwork #CrimePrevention #CommunitySafety #AutoBurglary #Arrest #NPD #Cameras

🚧 @CaltransD4 Lane Closures: Westbound & Eastbound State Route 37 (SR-37) between Atherton Ave & Petaluma River Bridge🚧 🛣️ One WB SR-37 Lane Closure near US-101 split 📆 Monday, 7/21 | 12pm - 4pm 🛣️ One EB SR-37 Lane Closure near US-101 split 📆 Tuesday, 7/22 | 3am - 7am

🚨Arrest in Child Exploitation Case Working in conjunction with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, Novato Police Detectives discovered that a Novato Resident had downloaded and viewed Child Sexual Assault Material and interacted with minors over the internet. Through search warrants, 20-year-old Novato resident John Ramirez was identified as the suspect. NPD Detectives served a search warrant at his residence and located evidence linking him to his crimes. Ramirez was not located at the residence and was believed to have fled to southern California. Due to Ramirez being in southern California, NPD requested assistance from the US Marshals Service Pacific Southwest Fugitive Task Force (USMFTF). On 7/15, US Marshals located and arrested Ramirez in southern California. Ramirez will be extradited to Marin County for possession of 1,650 images of child pornography of a minor under 12 years old and possession of images depicting sexual sadism to a minor. This case serves as a serious reminder for parents and guardians to stay actively engaged in their children’s online activities. Talk to your children about internet safety, monitor their interactions, and report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately. We extend a special thanks to the ICAC Task Force and the @USMarshalsHQ Service for their partnership and support in bringing this suspect to justice. Together, we remain committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. #ChildSafety #ICAC #NovatoPD #USMarshals #InternetSafety #ProtectChildren #CommunityPartnership

#TRAFFICALERT: The Marin-Sonoma Narrows B-7 project continues with pavement repairs and crack treatment for the existing roadway. The Atherton Avenue and De Long Avenue on- and off-ramps on SB US-101 are scheduled to be closed starting Monday, July 14. @maringov @CaltransHQ

🚨Weapons and Drugs Recovered in Retail Theft Case at Vintage Oaks Yesterday (7/8), around 4PM, Novato Police Officers responded to a report of a theft from a retail store in Vintage Oaks. Staff reported that four people stole about $2,000-$3,000 worth of merchandise from the store. Descriptions of the suspects were provided to the responding officers. The officers initially contacted two women with matching descriptions near Sports Basement, who provided false identifying information. Secondary contacts were made with the additional suspects around the same time. Information was gathered that a gold sedan was involved in the theft. The license plate was provided to officers, and the car was found parked near Target. Suspect Information: - Alyssa Hunsucker, a 33-year-old Arcata resident (Arrested for Possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, Burglary, Grand Theft, Conspiracy, False ID to a Peace Officer and ID Theft) - Taylor Snelgrove, a 29-year-old McKinleyville resident. (Arrested for Burglary, Grand Theft, Conspiracy, Possession of Controlled Substances) - Perry Sanderson, a 37-year-old Eureka resident (Arrested for Warrant, Parole Violation, Possession of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl and drug paraphernalia, possession of a concealed dagger, Felon in Possession of Pepper Spray) - Richard Feliz, a 47-year-old Redwood Valley resident (Arrested for Conspiracy, Possession of Drugs and Drug Paraphernalia) During the investigation, officers located approximately three ounces of Fentanyl, a concealed dagger, heroin, pepper spray, and stolen property. All four suspects were safely booked into the Marin County Jail. We are grateful for assistance from store employees and witnesses who provided information leading to a positive outcome in this case. NPD would like to remind everyone to be aware of their surroundings and report suspicious behavior by calling 415-897-4361. In an emergency or in-progress crime, call 9-1-1. If you see something, say something! Auto burglaries are more common in busy shopping centers especially around the holidays, so please remember to remove valuables and lock your vehicles to reduce the likelihood of thefts and burglaries.

🚨Be Safe, Drive Sober: Celebrate Fourth of July Responsibly: Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving🚔 Novato Police reminds our community to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday responsibly by planning ahead by designating a sober driver, using public transportation or ride share or calling a cab. During the Fourth of July holiday period, Novato Police will have officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. In 2023, 617 people were killed in crashes throughout the U.S. during the Fourth of July holiday period. Of those deadly crashes, 38% involved alcohol. In California, 29 people were killed in crashes and California Highway Patrol officers made over 1,300 arrests for driving under the influence during last year’s Independence Day holiday period. “Designating a sober driver is a simple choice that can save your life and the lives of others on the road,” Sgt. Reza Pourfarhani said. “Drunk driving is one hundred percent preventable. We’re asking everyone to think of your loved ones, friends and family before getting behind the wheel. Make a plan to get home safely.” Impaired driving is not caused by alcohol alone – prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other substances may also lead to impairment. If you plan to drink or take any medication with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. Here are tips for a safe and sober Fourth of July: 💥Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely. 💥Use Ride-Sharing Services or Public Transportation: If you plan to drink, use public transit or a rideshare service, or call a cab. 💥Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home. 💥Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride. 💥Stay Alert: Watch for impaired drivers on the road and report them to local law enforcement by calling 415-897-4361 or call 9-1-1. Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the @OTS_CA + @NHTSAgov.