February 17, 2026 – San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office officials report that they are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect connected to a theft at a local Vons grocery store.

On February 2, 2026, Sheriff’s deputies investigated a theft at the Vons grocery story in Nipomo in which the suspect allegedly stole approximately $4,000 worth of alcohol over the course of about one hour. During the incident, the suspect removed individual bottles from their boxes and concealed them under his clothing and inside a backpack before leaving the store. The suspect returned to the store multiple times during the theft.

No suspect vehicle has been identified. The suspect was wearing a distinctive black hooded jacket or sweater with a large white insignia on the back.

Anyone who can identify the suspect, or who may have information related to similar incidents, is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 805-781-4500. Anyone with information can also contact Crime Stoppers at (805) 549-7867 or online at: www.slotips.org.

Source & photo: San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office