Hollister police have identified the suspect in a May 5 theft from the Hi Outlet clothing store on Tres Pinos Road.
Police believe the suspect is Johnnie Angel Mendoza, 18, of Hollister. After reviewing the surveillance recording, Hollister Officer Luis Toribio recognized the suspect, with subsequent information in the investigation further connecting Mendoza to the theft, according to the Hollister Police Department.
Police on May 17 served a search warrant on his residence in the 500 block of A Street and recovered property matching descriptions of the stolen items. Police alleged Mendoza took the clothes in early May and ran from the store without paying.
Mendoza remains at large and his whereabouts are unknown. He recently moved to Hollister from the San Jose area, and there are indications he is a gang member and might have fled back to that area.
Police have referred the case to the district attorney’s office with felony charges recommended, according to the HPD.
Anyone with information regarding this crime or the whereabouts of Mendoza is encouraged to call Officer David Anderson with the Hollister Police Department at (831) 636-4330. People wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
