Sonora, CA…On November 20th, just after 8:00 A.M., Sonora Police Officers responded to Safeway (1291 Sanguinetti Road) for a report of a theft in progress. While en route, officers were advised two African American male adults exited the store with bags of stolen merchandise and got into a dark colored sedan, possibly a Toyota. Chief VanderWiel spotted a vehicle matching the description traveling westbound on Highway 108. Chief VanderWiel conducted a traffic stopped and detained the occupants, who also matched descriptions given to officers.

Officer Weber transported a store employee to the location of the traffic stop for a field-line up. The employee positively identified two of the occupants as the theft suspects. A search of the vehicle was then conducted and Officer Weber located numerous cans of baby formula, bottles of alcohol and miscellaneous clothing. Officer Weber contacted Safeway and was able to determine the items located were items stolen from Safeway. Officer Weber determined the total amount of stolen items was in excess of $1,000.00.

The suspects were identified as Antione Parker, 26 years old of Stockton, Delano Sherman, 24 years old of Oakland and Arlethia Sims, 25 years old of Fresno. Officer Weber learned that Sherman was on CDC Parole and was found to be in possession of pepper spray. All suspects were transported to the Tuolumne County Jail for booking. Sherman and Parker were charged with grand theft and conspiracy to commit theft. Parker is being held on $20,000 bail. Sherman was also booked on a separate charge of a convicted felon being in possession of pepper spray and is being held on a no bail parole hold. Sims was booked on an outstanding misdemeanor arrest warrant.