![A teacher leads her transitional kindergarteners back to class after recess at R.O. Hardin Elementary School.](https://sanbenito.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2016/02/f3a101e12223b3b7d43e2af95c9f4593-696x456.jpg)
The Hollister Police Department arrested two suspects in a daytime burglary at R.O. Hardin School, according to a statement from the department.
Two 25-year-old Hollister men were booked at the San Benito County Jail on charges alleging burglary, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy to commit a crime, according to the announcement. One of them faces an additional charge alleging obstructing a peace officer, according to police.
Police were alerted to the daytime burglary Monday, President’s Day, when a caller reported two subjects had hopped a fence into R.O. Hardin School with bolt cutters, the announcement explained.
“This is a great example of a community member stepping up and calling the police when they see something suspicious,” said Police Chief David Westrick in the statement. “Because this resident called, we were able to catch, and stop, two alleged thieves red-handed.”
Officers responded and found the men in an adjacent apartment complex, the statement said. One was detained immediately, but one fled on foot and was detained quickly after a search of the area, the announcement explained.
Officers investigated the scene and determined that the two had allegedly broken into a storage shed on the campus and had stolen about $1,500 in tools and equipment, the statement explained. Officers had arrived as they were about to load the stolen property into a vehicle and leave the area, according to the announcement. The property was recovered and returned to Hollister School District officials, according to police.
Anyone with information regarding this investigations can contact the Hollister Police Department at (831)636-4331. Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.