San Luis Obispo Police Seek Help Identifying Theft Suspect

Authorities say man tried to steal over $1,800 in goods from Home Depot.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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The San Luis Obispo Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying a man who allegedly attempted to steal over $1,800 worth of merchandise from a Home Depot store on Sunday. After a brief struggle with loss prevention, the suspect fled the scene and was later spotted removing clothing at a nearby Whole Foods before driving away in a dark-colored sedan.

Why it matters

Retail theft is an ongoing issue in many communities, with stores often facing significant losses from shoplifting. The San Luis Obispo Police Department is seeking the public's assistance to help identify and apprehend the suspect in order to hold him accountable and potentially prevent future crimes.

The details

According to authorities, the incident occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on Sunday when the suspect attempted to leave the Home Depot store without paying for the merchandise. He was confronted by loss prevention staff, leading to a brief physical altercation before the suspect fled the scene. The suspect was later spotted at a nearby Whole Foods, where he removed some clothing before driving away in a dark-colored sedan.

  • The incident occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 2, 2026.

The players

San Luis Obispo Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the attempted theft incident and seeking the public's help in identifying the suspect.

Home Depot

The retailer where the attempted theft took place, with loss prevention staff confronting the suspect.

Whole Foods

The grocery store where the suspect was later spotted removing clothing before fleeing the scene.

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What’s next

Investigators are asking anyone who can help identify the suspect to call officer LaDow at (805) 594-8053 or Crime Stoppers at (805) 549-7867.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of retail theft and the importance of community cooperation in helping law enforcement identify and apprehend suspects to maintain public safety and protect local businesses.