Turlock police arrested a man for robbery on Tuesday, but nearly let the suspect go without charges due to a delay in taking a report from the victim.
The victim was walking in the 600 block of Canal Drive when he was approached from behind by two males.
According to Turlock Police Department spokesperson Officer Mayra Lewis, Peter Garcia, 22, assaulted the victim and took the victim’s wallet from his sweatshirt.
The victim tried to get his wallet back and a struggle ensued. Garcia allegedly took the money from the wallet and fled the scene.
During the struggle, a witness called Turlock police and reported a fight. Police responded to the call and eventually contacted Garcia, but did not know he was involved in the robbery. He was not charged with any crimes.
During this time, the victim found a nearby location to call 911, since his phone had been knocked away during the fight with Garcia, and reported the robbery.
Police later contacted the victim and found that his description of the thief matched Garcia. Police once again contacted Garcia, and this time arrested him for robbery.
The victim was not injured in the robbery.
