Atascadero Barbershop burglar arrested thanks in part to Ring security system
Note: An earlier version of this story ran with an incorrect mug shot. The mug shot featured was of a different burglary suspect apprehended in Los Osos. The story has been updated with the Ring image of Phong Thanh Tran, the suspect arrested for the burglary of Felix’s Barber Shop.
–On Saturday, June 29, at approximately 11:50 p.m., Atascadero Police officers responded to a call of a burglary in progress at Felix’s Barbershop, located at 8420 El Camino Real in Atascadero. Just prior to the officer’s arrival, the individual ran from the scene and was able to elude the officers for a short period of time. APD K9 Luke was quickly able to track down the suspect, who was hiding under a truck located in a nearby industrial complex. The suspect surrendered and was taken into custody without incident; he was identified as Phong Thanh Tran, 49 years of age of Paso Robles, and he was booked into county jail on a variety of charges, including burglary, vandalism, delaying or obstructing an officer, possession of burglary tools and violation of probation.
The owner of the barbershop recently had a Ring security system installed. He was alerted by the system and video recorded the suspect, who was actually someone known to and recognized by him. During the burglary, the business owner was able to monitor the inside of his business and provide updates to APD officers while they were enroute. Officers were also able to view the Ring video and positively identify the suspect.
No one was hurt in this incident, the suspect was arrested and the stolen property was recovered. In this instance, officers were aided by the security system and video footage. Whenever feasible for Atascadero business owners and residents, similar security installations are recommended to assist our police officers in providing even more successful outcomes such as this.
