Merced police officers responded to the 1100 block of Monticello Court for reports of a man with a machete.

Officers responded to the area at approximately 11:30 a.m today, upon arrival, officer Rosales located 32-year-old Jesus Meza hiding underneath a van in the driveway of one of the residences.

Meza had been confronted by a homeowner while trying to steal from the property, the Merced Police Department said.

Once detained, Officer Crain recognized the machete and backpack matched the description of those taken in a commercial burglary at Elite uniforms.

The business owner was contacted and identified the property which was returned.
Mesa was arrested and booked.

Merced Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this crime to contact Officer V. Wilkins at 209-388-6912 or by email at wilkinsv@cityofmerced.org.