Merced police arrest suspected burglar

A 51-year-old man was arrested by Merced police Sunday morning after he allegedly attempted to steal coins from a laundry machine.

Officers Vance Walker and Jake Dudley were notified around 8 a.m. about a burglary happening at 2355 K St. A witness reported the suspect, later identified as Jay Jackson, had forced his way into a secured laundry room and taken coins from the laundry machine, according to a police press release.

The witness allegedly saw Jackson leaving the laundry room with a drill in his hand. Police believe the suspect drilled a hole in the coin box attached to the laundry machine and took out the coins. The suspect then fled on foot toward M Street, and the witness called the police.

Officers responded to the scene and saw the suspect walking southbound on M Street. The suspect had hidden the stolen coins when officers came to the scene, according to police.

Officer Leon Pintabona found around $36 in stolen coins near where Jackson was arrested, along with a sweat shirt Jackson had removed.

Officer Ronald Luker later found the drill hidden in some bushes near the laundry room. The witness positively identified Jackson as the suspect.

Jackson was booked into the Merced County jail on suspicion of burglary.

Anyone with information about the case can call (209) 385-6905 or the department’s automated tipline at (209) 385-4725. Tips are kept confidential, and you can remain anonymous.

This story was originally published November 23, 2014 at 3:20 PM with the headline "Merced police arrest suspected burglar."