Merced Man Arrested after Allegedly Leading Police Pursuit in Stolen Vehicle
Above: Cody Monk’s arrest | Merced PD
A man has been arrested in Merced for the alleged possession of a stolen motor vehicle and other charges, after reportedly leading officers on a pursuit through the city’s retail parking lots.
According to a press release by the Merced Police Department, on the morning of April 19th, an officer located an occupied stolen vehicle in a residential area north of Merced High School. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Cody Monk, a 33-year-old man who had previously been sought for two felony warrants.
Monk reportedly fled from officers and drove recklessly through retail parking lots in the area before abandoning the stolen vehicle in the Raley’s parking lot. Witnesses called in and provided an accurate description of his clothing and direction of travel. Despite seemingly attempting to alter his appearance, Monk was recognized by officers and taken into custody as he tried to walk away from the scene.
Monk was booked on suspicion of possession of a stolen motor vehicle and burglary tools, reckless driving, false identification to a peace officer, and two felony warrants. He remains in custody at the Merced County jail.
Despite the arrest, the investigation is ongoing, and police are continuing to keep the channels of communication open. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to reach out to Officer Jake Fister at 209-385-6912 or fisterj@cityofmerced.org. The case number for reference is 23-19932.
Other ways to contact the department include dialing 9-1-1 in case of emergency or, for non-emergencies, 209-385-6912. Those wishing to remain anonymous can leave tips with the department’s Anonymous Tip Line at 209-385-4725, or left online at Merced Area Crime Stoppers.
“Monk’s arrest was accomplished by the overwhelming amount of support provided by concerned citizens,” police said. “The Merced Police Department would like to thank all the members of the public that contributed in the apprehension of Cody Monk.”
