REGION — A 31-year-old man accused of a three-month crime spree for several businesses in San Diego and throughout the county, amounting to thousands of dollars, has been arrested, authorities announced today.
On Friday, suspect Eugene Mendiola was charged by the San Diego Police Department’s Northeastern Division with seven counts of commercial burglary. Mendiola allegedly used an Automated License Plate Reader to identify the vehicle he was driving during the alleged crimes, according to the department.
Police officials said burglary losses amounted to $7,620 and damages amounted to $13,150 throughout the city.
The SDPD charged Mendiola with commercial burglary for the following:
— 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 and;
— March 18, 2025, Best Pizza and Brew.
Police said Mendiola was also suspected in several other cases throughout the county last month, including Chula Vista, El Cajon, Escondido and Oceanside. He was suspected in 19 cases in total.
Authorities urged anyone with information about the burglaries to call the Northeastern Substation at 858-538-8012 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
