Robert Priebe, Chief of Police PRESS RELEASE May 9, 2009 | Moraga
On Saturday, 5/9/09, at approximately 12:10 AM, a 55 year old male walking on the west sidewalk of Moraga Rd north of Rheem Blvd., was suddenly attacked from behind and knocked to the ground. MPD Officer Russell Douthit; patrolling the area, saw two males kicking and punching a male lying on the sidewalk and intervened. The two suspects fled on foot and a vehicle parked nearby fled southbound on Moraga Rd. with its headlights out. Other MPD officers responded and located a 17 year-old male near the area of the assault and detained him on suspicion of robbery. Orinda PD officers, including their K-9 officer, assisted in a search for additional suspects without success, but the victim's stolen wallet was recovered in bushes near the area of the assault. At approximately 12:57 AM, an Orinda PD Officer stopped a vehicle matching the description of the suspect vehicle driving on Moraga Rd., in Lafayette. The driver, identified as 19 year-old Francisco Hernandez was found driving unlicensed and under the influence of alcohol. Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility for Robbery, DUI, and Driving Unlicensed with bail set at $50,000. The juvenile was booked into Juvenile Hall pending charges for Robbery. The victim resides in Orinda and received minor injuries. Both suspects gave El Sobrante addresses. The third suspect is still outstanding. Anyone with information is encouraged to call Sergeant Brian South at 925-888-7055 ext. 0.