On January 10, 2015 at approximately 9:41 p.m., Sergeant Jesus Parras was on patrol in the area of Second Street and Overland Avenue, responding to an unrelated call, when he observed a gray Scion traveling west on Overland Avenue at a high rate of speed.
The Sergeant attempted to overtake the vehicle but the driver, 32-year-old Tina Marie Carmona, accelerated and failed to yield to the patrol cars lights and siren. The vehicle continued to West H Street where the suspect lost control and collided into a dirt field near West H Street and Badger Flat Road. Carmona ran from the vehicle and was captured by Officer Todd Pricolo after a brief chase.
“The suspect was discovered to be a wanted for parole violations through the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Unfortunately this individual was in our community, and her actions placed our Officers and the public in danger. Thankfully, Sergeant Parras and Officer Pricolo were in the right place.”
- Ray Reyna, Police Commander
Carmona is currently in custody at the John Latorraca Correctional Facility being held without bail, charged with failing to yield to an emergency vehicle with disregard for public safety, resisting arrest, and possession of controlled substance paraphernalia.
To leave an anonymous crime tip call 209-827-7070 Ext. 288. If you have access to a computer and the internet you can also leave an anonymous tip at the Police Department’s web page at www.losbanos.org. At the bottom of the “Contact” page simply click on the “report graffiti and other crime” link or visit the Merced Area Crime Stoppers by telephone at 1-855-725-2420, or at www.mercedareacrimestoppers.org
