Car theft continues to be a major problem in Alameda, so both the Alameda Police Department (APD) and the City Attorney’s Office are committed to addressing vehicle theft-related offenses. Last month, APD’s Community Resource Unit compiled a list of individuals with arrest warrants associated with these crimes, according to a current post on the APD Facebook page. That list led to swift results.
“In the first month of their efforts, our officers made 11 arrests of individuals with warrants, witnessed two in-progress crimes resulting in arrests, and recovered four stolen vehicles,” the APD post states.
On June 12, Alameda Assistant City Prosecutor Montague Hung filed criminal charges against Defendant Casey Curnutt for attempted car theft and resisting arrest. The probable cause declaration filed with the Court states that on June 6, 2024, at around 5 a.m., APD officers were dispatched to Marina Drive for a reported vehicle theft in progress. Officers observed Curnutt exiting the victim’s vehicle. When officers attempted to make contact, Curnutt fled on foot but was ultimately apprehended by pursuing APD officers.
A witness at the scene positively identified the defendant. APD officers searched the victim’s vehicle and found evidence of burglary activities, including wires being cut below the steering column and burglary tools left behind.
“I am incredibly proud of the work of APD’s response to this and like incidents, and I appreciate the outstanding collaboration and support from the Alameda City Attorney’s Office,” Chief Nishant Joshi said. “Unlike any other city in Northern California, APD is lucky to have cases prosecuted by our City Attorney. Our community should know our City Attorney believes in accountability. This unique partnership meaningfully enhances public safety in the City of Alameda.”
Since becoming chief in 2022, Alameda Police Chief Joshi has implemented a data-driven and evidence-based approach that targets police resources to ensure maximum impact on public safety, including combating vehicle theft.
City Attorney Yibin Shen said that public safety is one of the City’s highest priorities. “City Prosecutors are committed to working collaboratively with our justice partners at the Alameda Police Department to protect public safety and safeguard victims’ rights in Alameda,” Shen said.
Following the voters’ direction in Measure AA, the Prosecution and Public Rights Unit of the Alameda City Attorney’s Office represents the People of the State of California in prosecuting misdemeanor criminal offenses. The Unit also brings affirmative litigation for violations of consumer protection and fair housing laws and educates the public about its rights and responsibilities in those areas. According to a statement issued by the City, prosecutors are dedicated to promoting and improving public safety and the quality of life in Alameda, through the fair, compassionate, and effective administration of justice.
