Three suspects were arrested in Oakland on July 26 for a string of robberies including one in Piedmont. The suspects are all related: Shane Downs (b. 1997), John Downs (b. 1995) and their mother, Grace Murphy (b. 1964).
The three suspects are facing multiple charges including robbery, firearms, probation violations and gang enhancements. They were booked into Santa Rita Jail in Dublin.
On the afternoon of July 19, a Piedmont resident was sitting in his car with his daughter on Caperton Way when one of the suspects allegedly approached the car with a gun pointed at the victim. The daughter left the vehicle screaming and the suspect demanded the victim’s watch. After taking the watch, the suspect jumped into a waiting car, which sped away.
“I’m thrilled that the suspects have been apprehended and hopefully justice will be served,” said the victim, who did not want to be identified.
Police report that the vehicle used as a getaway car was associated with similar robberies in Berkeley and Orinda. The three agencies worked together to investigate the crimes and tie them to the suspects.
“I’m very impressed with the Piedmont Police Department on their speed,” the Piedmont victim said. “I was aware they were working with Orinda and Berkeley.
“It’s great news!”
The victim’s watch, a Rolex Explorer, has not been recovered. Calls to the Orinda and Berkeley police departments asking for more information on the other robberies were not returned prior to deadline.
Anyone with more information or inquiries on the case may call Piedmont Detective Jeff Spranza or John Lagios at (510) 420-3013.