A 31-year-old man has been charged for taking part in a burglary spree at several businesses across San Diego County. NBC 7’s Shelby Bremer reports.
A man accused of a three-month crime spree targeting several businesses across San Diego County, including at least seven in San Diego that resulted in a total loss of $20,000, has been arrested, authorities announced Thursday.
Eugene Mendiola, 31, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to 20 felony counts, including nine charges of burglary and nine charges of vandalism, according to court documents. He is expected to face more charges in Vista court on Thursday, authorities said.
The cases being investigated by San Diego police include:
- March 15, 2024: Fay Diner
- March 15, 2025: Isabella's Mexican Food
- March 15, 2025: Pizza at the Ranch
- March 16, 2025, Pho Hoang Express
- March 16, 2025: Fine Indian Cuisine
- March 16, 2025: Pailin Thai Café
- March 18, 2025: Best Pizza and Brew
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Surveillance footage showed the suspect using an object to break through the glass doors to enter the businesses. The burglar, who is wearing a hoodie, used what appeared to be a crowbar to pry open the register and steal cash. The individual then proceeds to leave the business.
“I walk up to a completely shattered front door. I mean, it looked like a horror movie. Like perfect spider webs shattered around it glass everywhere,” said Josh Anderson, owner of Fay's Diner.
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Losses for the seven burglaries above amounted to $7,620 and damages amounted to $13,150 throughout the city.
Other cases across the county occurred in Chula Vista, El Cajon, Escondido and Oceanside, according to SDPD. NBC 7 is working to determine what other cases Mendiola is suspected in.
San Diego police said Mendiola was located after an automated license plate reader spotted a vehicle suspected in several burglaries.
Authorities urged anyone with information related to the burglaries to call the Northeastern Substation at 858-538-8012. Tips can also be called in anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
