Police Issue Photos of Suspected Tip-Jar Thief

Berkeley police are seeking public help in locating a man suspected of two tip-jar thefts and a laptop theft in North Berkeley businesses.

The police department released the attached photos of a man suspected of committing the thefts, all committed in the past month, including two in the past week.

The three thefts are:

• September 13, 2013, 6:15 p.m., 1500 Block of Shattuck Avenue, Stolen Laptop 
• October 5, 2013, 8:40 p.m., 1800 block of Euclid Avenue, Stolen Tip Jar 
• October 6, 2013, 4:13 p.m., 1800 block of Euclid Avenue, Stolen Tip Jar 

Police said the suspect is described as:

“African American Male, 35-40 years old,’7”-5’10”, 180-190 pounds, dark complexion, black hair receding hair line, pulled back into a ponytail wearing dark frame glasses.”

Police ask that anyone who sees the suspect or has knowledge of the his identity or of the crimes to contact the police Property Crimes Detail at 510-981-5737 or the non- emergency line at 510-981-5900. Those who want to remain anonymous can call Bay Area Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). 

The department also said it "would like to remind and encourage community members to employ a few crime prevention measures that can reduce your risk as well as discourage those who commit these crimes.

"Do not leave property unattended. Purses and backpacks hung on chairs are easy targets for theft. Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you. Report suspicious person or activities."

----------------