The completion to a sketch of an armed robbery suspect caused a
delay in the release of any public statements regarding the crime
at El Grullense restaurant a week ago, a Hollister police captain
said Friday.
The completion to a sketch of an armed robbery suspect caused a delay in the release of any public statements regarding the crime at El Grullense restaurant a week ago, a Hollister police captain said Friday.
Capt. Carlos Reynoso responded to the question over the delay by saying police wanted to make sure they had the correct information before alerting the public and the suspect.
The robbery involving a handgun at the restaurant, 900 Fourth St., occurred around 9:45 p.m. April 15. Police first reported the incident Thursday, six days after the robbery.
Investigators did not want to alert the suspect that they were searching for him before they had adequate information, Reynoso said. Police also wanted to be careful on what information was given out, he contended.
Reynoso also noted that police needed to obtain additional photos of the crime scene. Reynoso said he didn’t want to issue a statement before investigators were ready for it. Investigations can tend to take some time, he said.
The man, described to be between ages 20 to 30, was wearing a gray and maroon hooded sweatshirt and black or blue pants. He was holding a black semi-automatic handgun with a black glove on his right hand, police alleged.
He walked into the store’s south entrance and quickly approached the counter, according to police. He pulled the gun from his waist, pointing it at the clerk and demanding money.
He fled after receiving the money. There were no other customers in the store.
Police are urging those with more information to contact Detective Theresa Aguilera at 636-4330. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call WeTIP at (800) 78-CRIME.
The delayed communication to the public was not the first in recent times for a serious crime in Hollister. In February 2010, two San Benito High School students were arrested on suspicion of possessing explosives and having an “attack scenario” planned out, but the police department did not release information to the public for nearly four days.
