Redwood City Duo Tried Stealing To 'Buy a Nice Car and Take Girls Out on Dates': Prosecutors

REDWOOD CITY, CA – Two men accused of trying to burglarize a Portola Valley home Thursday pleaded not guilty Monday in San Mateo County Superior Court.

Redwood City residents Jesus Franco, 19, and Jose Rodriguez, 18, were both arrested on suspicion of attempted burglary, conspiracy and possession of burglary tools after attempting to flee from the home.

According to the sheriff's office, a 72-year-old woman called 911 shortly after noon Thursday upon noticing two men in her backyard in the 100 block of Golden Oak Drive.

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• Redwood City Pair Nabbed for Portola Valley Alleged Break-In Attempt

When deputies arrived, they saw the pair wearing latex gloves, trying to force open a door to the home. Upon seeing the deputies, the pair fled on foot, sheriff's officials said.

A deputy was able to immediately apprehend Rodriguez, while Franco was captured at a neighboring house.

Franco allegedly told investigators that he and Rodriguez decided that morning to break into homes in order to get $10,000 so that he could "buy a nice car and take girls out on dates," prosecutors said.

Rodriguez and Franco are set to appear next in court on Feb. 3 for a preliminary hearing. The two remain in custody, with bail set at $20,000 for Rodriguez and $50,000 for Franco, prosecutors said.

– PHOTOS from left: Jesus Franco; Jesus Jose Yahir Rodriguez / By Bay City News Service