San Mateo, CA – On February 19, 2026, at 11:52 p.m., San Mateo Police Department officers responded to the 200 block of South B Street on a report of grand theft. Upon arrival, officers contacted the adult victim, who reported that earlier in the evening an adult male suspect had stolen a laptop and several other items from the victim’s business.
Through a review of surveillance footage, officers identified the suspect as Malcolm Harper. Officers had contacted Harper earlier that same evening in the surrounding neighborhood regarding a separate disturbance, which aided in his identification.
Harper was later located and detained in the 500 block of East 3rd Avenue. He was wearing clothing consistent with the suspect seen in the surveillance video. During a search of his property, officers located the stolen laptop and other items, which were subsequently returned to the victim.
Based on the probable cause established during the investigation, Harper was arrested for grand theft. While being transported to the San Mateo County Jail, Harper repeatedly kicked the window and door of the patrol vehicle and ignored officers’ commands to stop. As a result, he was additionally charged with resisting an officer. Harper was booked into the San Mateo County Jail without further incident.
We rely on our community’s partnership to help keep San Mateo safe. If you witness a crime, contact police immediately. Remain as calm as possible and provide dispatchers with detailed information, including the suspect’s appearance, clothing, distinguishing features, and direction of travel. Once officers arrive, please cooperate fully and share all relevant information. Your observations play a vital role in helping us solve crimes and hold offenders accountable.
ARRESTED:
Malcolm Harper, 31-year-old San Mateo resident
CHARGES:
Harper-PC 487 (A)-Grand Theft, PC 148 (A) (1)-Resisting an Officer
