Fortuna Police Dept. Press Release:

On March 20, 2013 at about 2:00 AM, a Vancil Street resident reported that he believed someone had just taken several items from his vehicle. While officers were in the area, the initial victim re-contacted the department to report that he had seen a White two-door older model car in the area which he did not recognize.

Officers continued to search for the vehicle and at about 2:30 AM, a sergeant observed a vehicle matching the description leaving the area. Based on the information received as well as several observed vehicle code violations, an enforcement stop was conducted in the area of Main Street and Harlan Way. The occupants of the vehicle were identified as 25 year old, Edward Brinson, JR of Eureka and a 15 year old male of Eureka.

Upon further investigation, officers observed burglary tools and suspected stolen property in the back seat of the vehicle and determined that Brinson was on Felony Probation for Possession of Stolen Property and had an extensive history of theft related convictions.

Brinson and the minor were both taken into custody. During a search of Brinson’s person, he was found to be in possession of Methamphetamine.

Brinson was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and booked on the following charges:

- Petty Theft with a Prior
- Grand Theft
- Possession of Burglary Tools
- Possession of Stolen Property
- Possession of Methamphetamine
- Violation of Probation. 
- Vandalism

The minor was transported to Humboldt County Juvenile Hall and booked on the following charges:

- Grand Theft
- Possession of Burglary Tools
- Possession of Stolen Property
- Possession of Concentrated Cannabis

Currently, the department has identified eight victims all of which reside in the northern portion of Fortuna.

The department is asking that any additional victims or witnesses contact the department at 707-725-7550.