HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – November 5, 2021 – On November 4, 2021 the Hollister Police Department arrested a man for felony vandalism to city property on San Benito Street.
At about 11:30 am on Thursday November 4, 2021, Hollister Police Officers responded to the area of San Benito Street and Fourth Street on a cold report of a suspected vandalism to planters.
The planters were displayed along the sidewalks through the downtown area adorning San Benito Street. The reporting party advised most of the city planters were damaged and destroyed totaling about three thousand dollars.
Surrounding business surveillance video was able to capture a possible culprit but, it was not enough to make an arrest. Senior Officer Aguilera who was the investigating officer was able to recognize the description of the man matching the clothing of a local transient, Matthew Goodsell (49). Goodsell who is a parolee was arrested the day of the vandalism for battery on a peace officer and violation of parole.
A search of the City Downtown Camera Network revealed Goodsell walking southbound on San Benito Street damaging and destroying the city planters as he walked passed them.
Matthew Goodsell who was already in custody at the County Jail for the previous mentioned crimes was booked for felony vandalism of city property. It should be noted that Goodsell has history of damaging property and has been arrested on four separate occasion this past month.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Senior Officer Aguilera at the Hollister Police Department at 831-638-4100. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
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Prepared by: Aurelio Melgoza, Sergeant
Approved by: Carlos Reynoso, Chief of Police
