The suspect arrested in a home invasion robbery in Vista is also connected to similar crimes across San Diego County, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDSO).
Joe Colin Crowder Jr., 50, forced his way into a home on the 2400 block of Links Way around 5:15 a.m. on Oct. 16, SDSO said. The homeowners confronted Crowder in the kitchen area of the home after hearing someone rummaging through the house. While the homeowners called 911, Crowder took the keys of the couple’s car and drove off.
A purse, wallet and some electronic items were also stolen, SDSO said.
Crowder was arrested on Monday by the Escondido Police for similar crimes in Carlsbad, Escondido and Valley Center. But at the time, his connection to the Vista robbery was unknown.
The Sheriff’s Department released a video of the incident on Friday morning and offered up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest.
That’s when detectives with Escondido police recognized Crowder as the suspect in the video.
Crowder is currently being held at $500,000 bail in the Vista Detention Facility. He will be court on Oct. 28.
