Wanted Individual Arrested after Hiding from Police on Business’ Patio in Chico
On June 9th, 2023, Chico Police Detectives successfully located and apprehended a wanted individual near the intersection of East 3rd Street and Wall Street.
According to a press release by the Chico Police Department, the suspect was identified as 28-year-old Benjamin Miranda of Chico. Miranda reportedly had a history of weapons use and a parole violation from the California Department of Corrections/Rehabilitation.
Miranda reportedly fled on foot as officers arrived at the scene and officers began a search. Miranda managed to enter an open business, prompting additional officers to respond and provide assistance in the operation. To ensure public safety, the business was requested to implement a shelter-in-place protocol while the search was underway.
Given Miranda’s previous weapons-related incidents and his decision to conceal himself within the patio area of the open business, law enforcement officials deployed an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), commonly referred to as a drone. The drone was operated by a certified Chico Police Officer who has undergone specialized training as a law enforcement drone pilot.
Utilizing the UAS, the pilot conducted an aerial search of the business’s patio area. With the assistance of the drone, Miranda was ultimately located on the patio. The drone operator then issued verbal instructions to the suspect, who reportedly followed the instructions without incident.
Law enforcement officers later took Miranda into custody without further complications.
No injuries were reported during the incident, and normal business operations resumed following Miranda’s arrest. The investigation into Benjamin Miranda’s parole violation will continue, and he will face appropriate legal proceedings in accordance with the California Department of Corrections/Rehabilitation.
It was unclear at press time whether Miranda had retained an attorney.
