By Two suspects who attempted to steal a car from Parking Lot 12 led University Police and the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) on a six-minute pursuit Tuesday afternoon.
They were booked and charged with auto theft, hit-and-run and evading a police officer, which are all misdemeanors.
University Police said they received a call from a witness who reported he saw a black man attempting to break into a white 1994 GMC truck using a pry tool. The suspect noticed the witness and returned to his white Dodge van that had turquoise stripes.
The suspects were identified as McNeil Clarence, 55, and his girlfriend Michelle Mays, 33. Both are non-students, have a history of crime and are on parole.
University Police arrived immediately at the scene and identified the suspect’s vehicle at Atherton Street and Britton Drive. The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the suspects failed to yield and a short pursuit began.
The LBPD assisted the University Police with air support. During the chase, the suspects crashed into a parked city vehicle, causing minor damages in their efforts to evade the police.
The pursuit ended at 5600 E. Spring St. and the suspects were ordered at gunpoint with specific instructions to get out of the van. Both suspects were then arrested and taken into custody.
There were no injuries to the officers or suspects during the pursuit.
Clarence was arrested by University Police for possession of burglary tools prior to Tuesday’s incident.
“I want to thank the witnesses for being proactive in reporting the crime to [University Police],” Lt. Fernando Solorzano said. “It’s through these combined efforts that our efforts can be successful in apprehending criminals, when we get the help and support of our community.”
