Full Notification

Newark, California (Tuesday, July 15, 2025)  

Newark Police Officers arrested a Hayward resident in connection with an identity theft and fraud scheme that originated from a suspicious package delivery.

On Thursday March 27, 2025, a Newark resident was approached at his home by an unknown individual inquiring about a misdelivered package. Believing the individual to be a neighbor, the resident shared his phone number and agreed to return the package if it arrived.

The following day, the resident received a package with his address, but bearing a different name. He subsequently discovered unauthorized charges on his credit card, including retail purchases totaling thousands of dollars. Shortly after the package was delivered, the same individual called the resident to arrange pickup. Recognizing potential fraud, the resident contacted the Newark Police Department. Officers responded and took possession of the package, which was later confirmed to have been purchased using the resident’s stolen credit card information.

During the course of the investigation, Officers uncovered a high-value fraudulent purchase of a dental autoclave, worth over $5,000, from a dental supply company. The suspect had contacted the company via email and requested a change of shipping address, later identified as the suspect’s home. The phone number used in the transaction was linked to a piercing studio located in Hayward.

A search warrant was executed at the studio, resulting in the recovery of the stolen autoclave. Additional fraudulent orders were intercepted, preventing further financial losses. During questioning, the suspect claimed she had purchased the equipment online at a discounted price.

As a result of the investigation, an arrest warrant was issued. On Friday May 30, 2025, Newark Police arrested Tomasa “Tommy” Martinez Leon, a 24-year-old Hayward resident. Martinez Leon has been formally charged by the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office with Felony Identity Theft (530.5(a) PC) and Felony Possession of Stolen Property (496(a) PC).

Mail and identity thefts are on the rise and criminals are constantly evolving their tactics to commit fraud. The Newark Police Department encourages residents to stay vigilant and take the following precautions to protect themselves:

• Be cautious of “misdelivered” packages.
• Monitor your bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
• Secure your mail and packages by collecting them promptly.

As a reminder, please report any suspicious activity immediately, as community awareness plays a vital role in public safety.

Stay alert, stay informed, and trust your instincts.