US Marshals arrest 'prolific gym locker thief' targeting fitness facilities across Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- U.S. Marshals have arrested a woman in connection with gym locker thefts across five Bay Area counties, including multiple locations in San Francisco's Marina District, authorities said.

Police said the crimes were committed over a five-month period beginning in November of last year. The suspect had nine warrants out for her arrest involving burglary cases in San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Orange counties.

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The woman was taken into custody this week in Sacramento. Police described her as a "prolific gym locker thief," targeting fitness centers in the region.

Authorities said the suspect would obtain a day pass under a false name, then burglarize lockers and steal credit cards.

In the Marina District, where more than a dozen fitness facilities are located within a mile of each other, some residents said the arrest was surprising.

"That's really crazy," Chiara Marley said.

"She was coming and stealing from the locker rooms," Elisa Bozzini said.

U.S. Marshals made the one arrest in the case, though witnesses told ABC7 Eyewitness News reporter J.R. Stone that some burglaries in the past several months involved a two-person crew that went to work when classes started or were about to start. "They came in, they looked the part, they wore leggings, sports bra, came in, acted like they were going to work out, and as soon as the class started, they took the client's bags and phone," said Lorence Man.

Police have not said whether they are searching for a second suspect, but confirmed that the woman who was arrested has stay-away orders from multiple fitness businesses in San Francisco.

Gym patrons said the incidents are changing how they approach security.

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"I'm totally surprised, very surprised that something like that is happening. A woman on top of that," Robert Johnson said.

"I felt very safe, but it's good to know so that I can make sure I lock up my stuff, cause I don't always lock it," Erika Takayana said.

"If I'm running late sometimes, I don't and just kind of leave it on the floor somewhere because these classes get pretty packed and stuff like that," Marley said. "Makes me definitely think twice."

"Oh yes, I will always lock my locker now," Takayana said.

Authorities say anyone with information is asked to contact SFPD at 415-575-4444 or test a tip to TIP411 and begin the message with SFPD.