Alleged Prowler Caught In The Act: Santa Cruz Police

SANTA CRUZ, CA — A suspected prowler is behind bars after being chased out of a home Monday night, according to the Santa Cruz Police Department. Felix Salazar-Villanueva was quickly arrested in the Jesse Street Marsh after dashing out of the residence in the 300 block of Oceanview Avenue.

According to police, Salazar-Villanueva broke in to the home but was shooed out by the resident. "This is not the first time Felix Salazar-Villanueva was contacted by SCPD," police said in a statement. "He was recently arrested for prowling in the same area and is currently a suspect in an additional case. Please keep a watchful eye out for him."

As a result of the arrest, SCPD offered tips on how to prevent break-ins:

• Always keep your exterior doors locked.
• Secure all windows. If you intend on using an open window for ventilation when you are at home, use a locking mechanism that allows the window only to be partially open so that no one can fit through.
• Trim hedges below the window level to eliminate hiding spots for criminals.
• Install outside motion security lighting and make sure it is in good working order.
• If anything is suspicious, call 911.