San Diego County, California. — Fathers Involved in Burglary and Vandalism, Bring Children Along for the Crime
The incident began around 7:10 p.m. on December 14 and lasting about an hour. In the footage, two men and three children are seen and heard exploring the property’s “border” gate. For approximately 45 minutes, they can be heard discussing plans to vandalize and burglarize the property, before shifting their focus to a nearby guard tower.
After peeking into the structure the father noticed there was a sign inside the guard shack with written text that said “Really, you just broke the law. We implore you to call us at this number immediately to sort this out, or law-enforcement will be notified and we will press charges. You need to pay for any damage you’ve done to the guard shack. You are videotaped. Call us at this number so we can work out payment for the damage you’ve caused. Call right away or law-enforcement will be notified.”
The group was informed that they were being recorded and instructed to leave, and call the number provided with a demand for compensation for damage caused.
The group seemed uneasy after spotting the sign, though one of the children responded by saying, “If I’m being recorded, then I’m saying, ‘sup bro,'” and another child (possibly the same one) said, “We need to break in, okay? We need to break in.”
They eventually break in and make off with a mannequin and some other items.
“Slowjamastan has always prided itself on fostering fun and community, being a welcoming place built by great people in Ocotillo Wells. It’s particularly ironic that just days before this incident, the Slowjamastan team had spent the weekend cleaning up the desert through their Adopt-a-Highway program along CA-78. Now, these parents have set a poor example by bringing their children to commit crimes.”
“Shane and Joe”—the men featured in the video—have not only caused physical damage, but they have also put their children in harm’s way!”
A $1,000 CASH REWARD is being offered for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individuals in the video, “SHANE” and “JOE.” Tips can be sent via email to [email protected] or to the Imperial County Sheriff’s Department at (442) 265-2000.
