Saturday, Sep. 29, 2012

Burglar caught in act at a home

A burglar was caught in the act after a Los Banos family locked themselves in a room and called authorities, police said.

The Los Banos Police Department responded to the 1600 Block of Woodbrush Avenue at 4:43 a.m. Monday after receiving a report of a residential burglary in progress.

The homeowners told police they woke up to the sound of someone inside their home. The couple and their children locked themselves in a room and called the police.

Police said 29-year-old Joe Alves of Los Banos could be seen through a window as officers arrived on the scene.

Police said they forced their way into the home and briefly struggled with Alves, who allegedly displayed traits of being under the influence of drugs and appeared to be confused. Methamphetamine was discovered in his possession, police said.

Alves was arrested on suspicion of residential burglary and possession of a controlled substance. Alves is in custody at the Los Banos Jail in lieu of $60,000 bail.

Police have not said how Alves gained entry into the home. No injuries were reported in the incident.

To leave an anonymous tip regarding this case or others, call (209) 827-7070, ext. 288, or visit the Police Department's webpage at www.los banos.org.