From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

 

A wanted felon is in custody after leading sheriff’s deputies on a foot chase early Saturday morning.

Deputies were dispatched to the 7000 block of David Court on Humboldt Hill on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017 at 12:17 a.m. for a report of a car prowler in the area.

Upon arrival, deputies observed the suspect 29-year-old Anthony David Maillelle. Maillelle fled into a side yard after seeing deputies. Deputies caught Maillelle while he attempted to scale a fence. Maillelle continued to resist deputies. He was eventually taken into custody. Maillelle had a felony warrant out for his arrest. He was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on the following additional charges: obstructing/resisting a police officer, violation of probation.

Car prowl is consistently one of the top three reported crimes in most cities and towns during the last five years. A car prowl can be completed in a minute or less, and a significant number of these crimes occur between the hours of 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. Methods of entry include: entering into the vehicle through an unlocked door, breaking a window, or using a wedge to gain access. The offender often wears a backpack or a duffle bag to transport the items.

Car prowl is one of the easiest crimes to prevent with increased awareness and a change in habits. The following steps will reduce the chances that your vehicle will be targeted:

  • 1. Keep the interior of your vehicle “showroom” clean. Never leave valuables in plain view. Offenders often break in to vehicles for items such as gym bags because they assume there are electronic devices or other items inside.
  • 2. Hide chargers and accessories that indicate a GPS, mobile phone or other devices that support electronics.
  • 3. Remove garage door openers, key cards, and house or work keys from your car.
  • 4. Park your car in a well-lit area. Trim back trees and bushes that block the view of your vehicle from your house.
  • 5. Always lock your vehicle, even if you are home.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.