Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

PR #: 2000003
Date Issued: Jan 08, 2020 - 12:15pm

Washoe County Sheriff's Office ATAC detectives catch suspected burglar in the act, believe there may be additional victims

CONTACT: Bob Harmon
Washoe County Sheriff's Office
Office 775-785-6235
Cell 775-722-5517

Washoe County Sheriff's Office ATAC detectives arrested a burglary suspect Tuesday afternoon as the suspect was attempting to enter a south Reno home where two juveniles were home on their own.

At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2020, an ATAC undercover detective was patrolling in the area of East Huffaker Lane south of Longley Lane when he observed a man, later identified as 26-year-old Mitchell Griffith, acting suspiciously. According to the detective, Griffith appeared to be looking for potential burglary opportunities based on the way Griffith was looking through vehicle windows and going on to residential properties.

Additional ATAC detectives arrived in the area and continued to observe Griffith's activities.

At one point, it appeared to detectives that Griffith was attempting to make entry into a residence on Offenhauser Drive. Detectives then detained Griffith and contacted the homeowner. After further investigation, detectives learned that two teenagers were in the residence on their own at the time Griffith was attempting to make entry. The homeowner said that Griffith had actually entered the home illegally two days prior but had been chased off by the homeowner.

Based on their investigation, detectives arrested Griffith on charges of burglary and attempted burglary.

Detectives recovered additional evidence that indicates Griffith may have burglarized at least one other residence or vehicle in the area on Tuesday, January 7 and are asking anyone who may have been a victim or who has additional information to contact Detective Josh Jenkins at 775-857-8754.

The Sheriff's Office reminds residences that vehicle and residential burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Taking steps to remove opportunities may help to reduce crime.

Always ensure that vehicles and residences are secured by locking doors and always report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Also:

  • Do not leave valuables in plain view
  • If parking outside, remove your garage door opener from your vehicle
  • Always take your keys with you
  • Don't leave your vehicle warming up in the drive way unattended
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The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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