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East County News Service
February 7, 2024 (El Cajon) – Yesterday afternoon, a man entered Big 5 Sporting Goods on Fletcher Parkway, selected merchandise, and then exited the store without paying. A store employee attempted to stop the man from stealing.
According to El Cajon Police, the man swung a plastic bag containing a small metal propane bottle at the employee and struck her in the forehead, causing pain and minor injury. The employee was able to use her cell phone to photograph the man as he fled the area toward the trolley.
Officers observed the man boarding the trolley north bound towards the Weld Blvd station. When the trolley arrived at the next stop, officers detained the man. He was found in possession of the stolen property along with the plastic bag containing the propane bottle.
The man was identified as 33 year old Steven Baez, who is currently homeless in El Cajon. He was arrested on felony theft and assault charges and he was booked into San Diego Central Jail.
El Cajon Police Chief Mike Moulton says, “The El Cajon Police Department will use every resource available to hold criminals who commit these types of thefts accountable. Criminal acts will not be tolerated and will have consequences for those who commit them.”
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