EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — An off-duty deputy interrupted a theft in progress and arrested one suspect in East El Paso, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The suspect allegedly resisted arrest and at one point tried to grab the deputy’s service weapon, the Sheriff’s Office said.
On Saturday morning, June 13, the off-duty deputy was driving home after his shift when he observed a theft in progress at a Circle K located at 2301 Joe Battle Blvd.
Officials from the Sheriff’s Office said the deputy immediately intervened and confronted the suspects, who fled on foot.
During the pursuit, the deputy apprehended one suspect, identified as 17-year-old Jose Rosales. Rosales allegedly resisted arrest and pushed the deputy before being taken into custody.
Jose Rosales, 17 (El Paso County Sheriff’s Office)
While awaiting for a marked patrol unit to arrive, Rosales freed one hand from his handcuffs and attempted to flee, leading to a second brief foot pursuit and a physical altercation, the Sheriff’s Office said.
Rosales attempted to take the deputy’s service weapon during the struggle, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The deputy maintained control of the firearm and successfully restrained the suspect until additional deputies arrived, they said.
Stolen merchandise valued at $71.62, consisting of BuzzBallz and margarita wine coolers, was recovered and returned to the business.
Rosales was charged with theft, evading arrest, escape from custody, and attempting to take a weapon from a peace officer.
He was booked into the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility. His bond was set at $9,500.
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