Claremont police arrested Colton resident Daniel Negrete, 18, for commercial burglary after his involvement in incidents at Kazama Sushi and Casa Moreno in Claremont last week. Mr. Negrete later posted bond and was released. Detectives are currently working to locate the other three suspects in this case.

On Wednesday, December 14, Claremont police responded to Kazama Sushi (101 N. Indian Hill Blvd.) regarding a window smash and burglary of the restaurant. The suspect(s) made off with the cash register. Casa Moreno (101 N. Indian Hill Blvd.) was burglarized in the same manner and the cash register was also taken. Both cash registers were later located in the parking lot of Claremont High School and returned to the owners.

Detectives reviewed video surveillance from the Public Plaza near the businesses and saw that four suspects were involved in the burglaries. Video from the high school identified a possible suspect vehicle. Through investigation, a vehicle was located later in the Ontario Mills parking lot that matched the suspect vehicle description that had been reported stolen. Three people, including Mr. Negrete, returned to the car and were taken to the Claremont Police Department for questioning. During questioning, Mr. Negrete admitted to the burglary but the other two individuals were released without charges.

Claremont police remind business owners to take preventative measures to reduce risk of burglary. If a cash register can be viewed from outside through the windows, police recommend removing all cash and leaving the cash drawer open and in plain view. Business owners should also affix a sticker on the door that states no cash is kept “on site” when closed. Additionally, consider installing a video surveillance system that uses high resolution video,  which can aid in the identification and apprehension of suspects.