Merced County deputies arrested a 53-year-old man early Tuesday after a burglary and vehicle theft at a Cedar Crest Court residence.

Authorities said deputies responded at 2:50 a.m. to reports of a burglary in progress. As they arrived, they saw the victim’s vehicle leaving the home with an unknown driver.

Deputies pursued the vehicle before the driver stopped near Redwood Drive and fled on foot.

The suspect, identified as Billie Latham, was later found hiding near a nearby residence. Latham was booked into the Merced County Jail on multiple charges, including burglary, vehicle theft, committing a felony while on bail, petty theft with prior convictions, and resisting arrest.

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The sheriff’s office, assisted by the California Highway Patrol, said the incident appears isolated and asked anyone with information to call (209) 385-7445.

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