Full Notification

Last weekend, Novato Police Officers investigated a series of commercial burglaries, vandalism incidents, and arson on Roblar Drive and Ignacio Blvd.

On Saturday, around 5:44AM, officers responded to a report of a fire inside a business on Roblar Drive. Novato Fire personnel determined that the fire incident was arson related and ignited intentionally. The building’s fire sprinkler system was activated due to the fire. During a building search, a second area was located that had been burned but was extinguished. During the fire investigation, NPD Officers learned two SMART Train buildings were vandalized on Roblar Drive.

Later that morning, NPD Dispatch was advised that a suspect was actively breaking into the Crave Restaurant on Ignacio Blvd. Witnesses reported a suspect damaging the front window. Officers quickly responded and established a perimeter around the building. Witnesses told officers they believed the suspect was now inside the dentist office next to the restaurant causing additional damage to dental equipment, walls, and windows.

Officers found a man inside the business and told him to stop and exit the building. The man was identified as, Conn Michael Prescott, a 61-year-old resident of Emerald Lake Hills, CA. Prescott refused to exit the building. He then attempted to run away.

After a brief foot pursuit, Prescott was detained. When reviewing surveillance footage, it was determined that Prescott matched the suspect description for starting the fires at the business on Roblar Drive and vandalizing the SMART Train buildings.

Prescott was arrested for Arson, Vandalism, Burglary, and other charges. A bail enhancement was obtained ($500,000). In total, Prescott caused an approximate $300,000 in damage to all the businesses.

Prescott was taken into custody safely due to effective teamwork and communication with the Novato Fire Protection District. We are extremely grateful for our community members who provided accurate and timely information, ultimately leading to the arrest.

 As a reminder, we can help reduce crime in our community together. When suspicious activity arises, give us a call day (415-897-4362) or night (415-897-1122). As always, call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Stay safe Novato!