Novato Police Arrest Richmond Man On Suspicion of Vehicle Theft

NOVATO, CA — A 21-year-old Richmond man remained behind bars Saturday night at Marin County Jail after Novato police allegedly caught him driving a stolen vehicle Saturday morning.

A Novato police officer, while on patrol about 7:30 a.m. Saturday on Ignacio Boulevard in a patrol vehicle equipped with an automated license plate reader, was alerted by the plate reader to a 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche, according to a statement from Novato police Sgt. J. Demski.

Officer Sedeno followed the Avalanche as the driver — later identified as Cody Ray Smith of Richmond — headed south on U.S. Highway 101.

After confirming the vehicle had been reported stolen, Novato officers initiated a traffic stop of the Avalanche on southbound U.S.-101 near Frietas Parkway in San Rafael and took Smith into custody without incident.

Jail records show Smith was being held on $25,000 bail for the alleged vehicle theft, which is a felony, as well as alleged possession of burglary tools and driving on a suspended license, which are misdemeanor charges.

The Avalanche was processed for evidence and then released to its registered owner, according to Demski.

“The Novato Police Department currently has several patrol vehicles equipped with ALPR technology,” Demski said. “The ALPR system automatically recognizes license plates that have been entered into the stolen and wanted vehicle databases. The ALPR system also gathers valuable information that can assist with investigations.”