Ripon police seek gun thief suspect | Crime

RIPON, CA - Ripon police released two store security camera images showing a suspected gun thief in the hope someone will recognize the man and tell authorities.

The man went into Barnwood Arms, a Ripon firearms retail shop on Oct. 11 and stole a Springfield EMP 1911 9mm pistol worth more than $1,200, said police First Sgt. Steve Merchant.

Merchant said it was believed the man opened an unlocked gun case, took the gun and hid it on his person before walking out of the store. The theft was discovered a short time later that day and store employees reported it to police.

The man was described as white, in his 40s, approximately 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds. His cropped brown hair was cut close. He had tattoos, including one fully covering his lower left arm.

The man wore a gray San Francisco 49ers t-shirt; red, long shorts and black shoes.

Anyone with information about the theft was asked to call Det. Matt Ford at (209) 599-0254 or the Ripon Police Department information tip-line at (209) 599-7847 (599-RTIP).