On May 17, 2012, Merced County Deputy Preston Sanchez arrested two 16 year old Hispanic juveniles for breaking into Hilmar Market and stealing alcohol and a Hookah Pipe. According to the Merced County Sheriff’s Department, the Market had been hit on several occasions over the past few weeks, the thieves gaining entry through the roof.
After conducting follow up investigation, Deputy Sanchez was able to identify two 16 year old juveniles as being responsible. During questioning, one of the juveniles confessed to the latest robbery where the liquor and pipe were stolen, but they denied the other break-ins.
Three of the six liquor bottles were recovered and the pipe had been smashed prior to arrest. The juveniles were arrested on charges of burglary.
