Theft Suspects Arrested After Vandalizing Nativity Scene And Stealing Property

RIPON, CALIFORNIA.

Source: Ripon Police Department.

On 12-10-16, at approximately 2:45 AM, the Ripon Police Department received a report of two suspicious males who were knocking on the door of a residence in the 1000 block of Kelcie Drive. The suspects were reportedly asking the home owner about drugs at the residence.

Officers immediately responded to the area and they located the two suspects on Doak Blvd. The bicycles the suspects were riding were found to be stolen from a Ripon residence. Christmas lights in the suspect’s possession were found to be stolen from another Ripon residence. One of the suspects was found to have a confirmed traffic warrant out for his arrest.

Both suspects were taken in to custody. Officers continued their investigation and learned one of the suspects vandalized a local nativity scene on Mohler Road by kicking over an angel and breaking the head off.
Michael Peter Johnson (21) of Manteca Ca. was booked into the San Joaquin County Jail on charges that included Petty theft, vandalism and the outstanding misdemeanor traffic warrant.

Stephen Everett Johnson (35) of Tracy Ca. was booked into the San Joaquin County Jail on charges that included possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, petty theft and public intoxication.

Police department spokesperson, Lieutenant Steve Merchant, commended the citizen who immediately called the police when suspicious activity was observed.

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