SA police arrest robbery suspect with help from residents

John Connelly, 58, stole more than $10,000 worth of tools, police say

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio police are thanking East Side residents for tips that led to the arrest of a robbery suspect.

John Connelly, 58, was charged with three counts of felony burglary after stealing between $10,000 to $15,000 worth of tools from houses under renovation in Dignowity Hills.

Police are still trying to recover some of the stolen property.

Area residents gave police photos and videos of Connelly, who police said would enter homes disguised as a construction worker and leave with stolen tools.

San Antonio police Sgt. Val Garcia said the tips were vital to Connelly's arrest.

"That's actually what we're looking for, for the collaboration between detectives and residents," Garcia said. "That community engagement would really assist us in solving the case."