On Sunday, February 21, 2021, two male suspects in a black sedan followed a male Atherton resident from Highway 101 to his house on Belleau Avenue in Atherton. At the residence, the two male suspects attempted to strong arm rob the resident of his wrist watch. The male resident fought back along with the aid of his daughters and wife who ran out from their house to help him. During the altercation, one of the male suspects pulled out a pistol and fired one round in the direction of the mother. The mother was not struck by the bullet, but did receive minor injuries from shrapnel as the bullet ricocheted off another surface. The male resident sustained minor injuries to his face as a result of the fight with the suspects. The two male suspects then fled the scene in their vehicle headed toward El Camino Real.
Investigators were able to identify the suspects' vehicle through use of the Flock Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) camera system. Through the use of this technology, investigators were able to quickly identify the two male suspects who were both on probation due to extensive criminal histories. On February 25, 2021, Atherton Police Officers arrested Tavijar Hollis, a resident of Pittsburg CA, on multiple charges for his participation in this incident.
This is another successful and effective use of the Flock ALPR camera system to assist in the detection and ultimate apprehension of dangerous criminals. Starting in late 2020, the Town, along with the financial support of several Atherton residents, installed 26 Flock ALPR cameras at strategic locations around Atherton. Since the deployment of the Flock ALPR cameras, Atherton officers have recovered several stolen vehicles, arrested a suspect wanted in a felony hit and run collision, recovered a car wanted in connection with a serious violent felony, and have arrested several wanted and dangerous felons.
The Flock ALPR camera system is a highly effective tool that serves as a deterrent to crime in Atherton and as a very effective investigatory tool for officers and detectives.
Steven D. McCulley
Chief of Police
