Man suspected in Redwood City vandalism spree pleads not guilty

(KRON) — A man suspected of vandalizing 14 businesses in downtown Redwood City earlier this month by carving an “R” into large window panes pleaded not guilty in court on Friday, according to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.

Roman Leoncontreras, 25, of Menlo Park, is accused of the vandalism which occurred on the night between July 12 and 13. The DA’s office said Leoncontreras used a rock to carve the large “R,” which was later determined to be the initial of Roman’s name.

Fourteen businesses were found to have damage, with several providing surveillance footage to Redwood City Police Department officers. Damages were estimated to be more than $60,000, according to prosecutors.

On July 17, a victim of one of the vandalism incidents flagged down police to point out that the suspect was in the area. Officers contacted Leoncontreras, who was arrested at the scene for felony vandalism charges and an outstanding warrant.

Prosecutors said Leoncontreras “admitted to what he was doing and said he wanted to carve his signature on all businesses in the downtown streets.”

In Redwood City Felony Court on Friday, Leoncontreras pleaded not guilty to 16 counts of felony vandalism. Bail was set at $25,000. His next court date was set for July 31.