2 Security Guards Held in Burglary of Lobbyists’ Offices

Two private security guards have been arrested on suspicion of committing the weekend burglary of six lobbyists’ offices a block from the Capitol, and police said the arrests should end speculation that the break-in was politically motivated.

“I can tell you this, it’s not a Watergate,” said Sacramento Police Sgt. Diane Ramsey.

Ramsey said Terrance Miles, 25, and Ronald Caliri, 29--both employees of Cal State Security Patrol Services--were arrested Wednesday after police found televisions and computers stolen from the lobbyists’ offices in the men’s homes.

Police said they have established no motive but the vandalism and burglary did not appear to be related to politics or to the investigation of former Sen. Alan Robbins (D-Van Nuys), who has agreed to plead guilty to corruption charges and has been cooperating with federal authorities for months as an informer.

Robbins’ involvement in a wide variety of legislative business has led to speculation about the possible direction of the federal investigation and created a paranoia-tinged atmosphere in the state Capitol.

The discomfort among some lobbyists was heightened after the burglary of offices on the 12th and 14th floors of A Capitol Place. The intruders punched holes in the walls, smashed computers, trashed art work, cut open furniture and scattered food and files.

Ramsey said the two suspects were not assigned to guard the building where the lobbyists’ offices are located, but they work for the firm that provides security for the building. She did not say what led police to search their houses.

Both men face charges of burglary, felony vandalism and possession of stolen property, and will probably be arraigned next week, Ramsey said.