SFPD Arrest Prolific Burglary Suspect

San Francisco Police have arrested a prolific burglary suspect who wore a duty belt with a variety of burglary tools that even included a stethoscope to listen for activity in another room if residents were present. Roman Jarvis, 39, was taken into custody May 29.

On June 10, he was charged with a total of 15 felony and two misdemeanor counts on charges including burglary, stolen autos, and possession of stolen property and burglary tools in nine incidents that police believe date back to December 2012. All of the incidents occurred in San Francisco.

In one of the most brazen of the incidents, Jarvis gained entry to a residence in the Edgewood neighborhood near Twin Peaks sometime during February 23-24, 2013. After escaping with valuables, including a Mercedes-Benz, Jarvis returned the following day, again gaining access, this time when the residents were at home, and stole additional valuable items.

The coordinated and continuous efforts of Criminal Investigations Unit investigators and officers from Mission and Park stations resulted in Jarvis’ arrest. The efforts of the Office of the District Attorney worked diligently to strengthen the prosecution.

Investigators continue to determine if Jarvis acted alone in the burglaries. Investigators are also looking into Jarvis’ additional criminal activity, which may include participation in fraud operations. He remains in custody. A booking photo of Jarvis accompanies this press release.

Anyone with information about the suspect is urged to contact Lt. Alexa O’Brien, Criminal Investigations
Unit, 415-553-1184.