Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On March 28, 2025, around 1:40 p.m., a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Sergeant assigned to the McKinleyville area was dispatched to the report of a theft from a business located in the 1700 block of Central Avenue. The reporting party provided a suspect description and stated the subject had stolen liquor and clothing from the business. Upon arrival, the Sergeant contacted a subject in the 1300 block of Central Avenue, identified as Mason Harris, 38, of Arcata, who matched the description of the theft suspect. The Sergeant also recognized Harris from a previous theft investigation in September 2024.

During the Sergeant’s investigation, it was discovered Harris had several outstanding warrants for his arrest and was also on searchable probation for theft and narcotics related offenses. During a search of Harris’ person, a large amount of suspected methamphetamine, scales, and other drug paraphernalia was discovered.

Harris was subsequently arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for the following charges:

• Possession of a controlled substance for sales - HS 11378

• Possession of a controlled substance – HS 11377(a)

• Possession of unlawful paraphernalia - HS 11364(a)

• Probation violation - PC 1203.2(a)

The items originally taken from the business were never located and it is believed they were disposed of prior to Harris being contacted by law enforcement.

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