Novato Arson Suspect Caused $300K In Property Damage: Cops

NOVATO, CA — An investigation of a series of commercial burglaries, arson and vandalism incidents led to the arrest of a San Mateo County man over the weekend, Novato police said Monday.

Conn Michael Prescott, a 61 of Emerald Lake Hills (near Redwood City) was arrested Saturday on suspicion of arson, vandalism, burglary, and other charges, police said.

Prescott was taken to Marin County Jail and is being held on a $500,000 bail enhancement, police said.

He caused approximately $300,000 in damage to the involved businesses, police said.

Officers at around 5:45 a.m. Saturday responded to a report of a fire inside a business on Roblar Drive, police said.

Novato Fire Department personnel determined that the fire incident that activated the building’s fire sprinkler system was caused by arson, police said.

Officers during a search of the area found a second location that had been burned but and two SMART Train buildings on Roblar Drive that were vandalized, according to police.

Officers later morning responded to a report of a suspect breaking into Crave Restaurant on Ignacio Boulevard, police said.

Witnesses reported a suspect damaging the front window, police said.

The suspect entered an adjacent dental office, where he caused additional property damage, police said.

Officers established a perimeter around the building and arrested Prescott after a brief foot pursuit, police said.

After reviewing surveillance footage, investigators determined that Prescott matched the suspect sought in connection with the Roblar Drive incidents, police said.

“Prescott was taken into custody safely due to effective teamwork and communication with the Novato Fire Protection District,” police said in a statement.

“We are extremely grateful for our community members who provided accurate and timely information, ultimately leading to the arrest.”