Store theft suspect drags police officer with her car
The cop suffers minor injuries in incident in Safeway parking lot
SAN MATEO — Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a theft suspect who on Thursday dragged a San Mateo officer 35 feet with her car.
The officer was patrolling Woodlake Shopping Center when he noticed a Safeway employee running out of the store pointing at a woman loading her car with alcoholic beverages. He turned his squad car around and contacted the suspect, who by that time was sitting in the driver’s seat of her car. She told him the receipt for the booze was in the trunk.
As the woman started the engine, the officer grabbed her and ordered her to turn it off. She instead floored her car in reverse, dragging the officer 35 feet before he released his grip and fell, police said.
The suspect drove off and was last seen heading southbound on South Delaware Street.
Police said the officer suffered minor injuries and was released back to duty at the scene.
The woman was described as black, about 40 years old, 5-foot-6 to 5-foot8 and 150 to 160 pounds. She also had a tattoo on her lower back and was driving a maroon 1998-2002 Honda Accord.
San Mateo police are asking anyone who recognizes the suspect to contact the investigations bureau at 650-522-7650. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call 650-522-7676, text 650-262-3473 or email http://tinyurl.com/SMPDTips.