Sgt. Rich was assisting Madera County Sheriff Deputies and a detective searching for another burglary suspect in the Bass Lake area outside Oakhurst when he encountered Anthony Meents near Road 274 and Road 434.
Sgt. Rich spoke with Mr. Meents and found him to be in possession of methamphetamine and a hypodermic needle. Sgt. Rich was then informed by other Deputies that Mr. Meents was wanted in connection with a burglary at Oak Creek Intermediate School on Saturday, April 25, 2015 where a laptop was stolen out of a classroom.
Mr. Meents admitted to the burglary and was ultimately arrested for possession of methamphetamine and the burglary.
Madera County Sheriff Jay Varney created the new Problem Oriented Policing Sergeant position with flexible assignments to supplement existing Patrol and Investigations resources and to be able to focus efforts on particular problems in the community. This Problem Oriented Policing Sergeant position is designed to have a problem solving focus and Sheriff Varney plans to expand the program if it produces the positive results that are expected.
Sheriff Varney said “This case is great proof that this new concept will work. With additional resources, teamwork, and motivated employees this program will produce great results and make our community a safer place.”
Source: MCSD.
