Arrests in robberies calm shoppers’ fears

Local residents are resting a bit easier after Concord Police arrested two suspects in connection with four robberies in and around a popular strip mall on Clayton Road and Ygnacio Valley Road.

Last Thursday police arrested 57-year-old Richard T. French and Charles C. Curry, both of Concord, on suspicion of armed robbery at the Sally Beauty Supply and the Yogurt Shack on Aug. 17 and Pet Food Express and The UPS Store on Aug. 21. French was additionally wanted for a $100,000 felony fraud warrant in another city.

No victims were injured during any of the robberies, and no shots were fired. After the first robbery, Detectives from the Concord Police Major Crimes Unit took over the investigation and began pursuing several investigative leads.

Still, the crime spree in and around the usually quiet Clayton Valley Shopping Center unnerved residents and business owners alike – especially those who had been targeted.

“I’m happy that nobody got hurt,” says Tricia Tamura, who owns the UPS Store. “You want to know that you would take the safe route.” Tamura says her employee stepped back from the cash register; the suspect grabbed the money after showing a gun and then left the store.

Anyone with information about these crimes is urged to contact Det. Pardilla at the Concord Police Department at 925-603-5922. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the tip line at 925-603-5836.