Good Samaritan Tackles Suspect In April, Awarded Commendation

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — A Santa Cruz County man was honored during an awards ceremony in May several weeks after he helped capture a fleeing suspect, sheriff’s officials said. In April, Steven Mello helped tackle an allegedly armed gang member who was trying to run from a deputy in Live Oak. Officials said a gun fell out of the suspect’s pants during the arrest.

“Without Steven’s help, this situation could have had a different outcome” officials said.

Hailed as a “true hero,” Mello was awarded a commendation from Sheriff Jim Hart for his efforts.

Photo courtesy Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office