Arnold, CA…On February 1, 2020, at about 4:23 AM The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an alarm at the “Kwik Serv” Gas Station, located in Arnold. Upon arrival at 4:28 AM, the deputy observed the suspect, Thomas James McNicholas (53-year-old from Arnold), still inside the business. McNicholas saw the deputy and smashed out a side window to the business in an attempt to evade capture. The deputy gave chase and apprehended McNicholas after a short foot pursuit.

McNicholas was found in possession of 23 items from the interior of the business. While processing the crime scene for additional evidence, deputies learned the suspect gained entry by breaking through a roof access in an attempt to circumvent the alarm system. Thankfully, the motion detectors were still active and alerted authorities.

Thomas James McNicholas was booked into the county jail. He was charged with 460(B) PC Burglary (Felony) and 148(A)(1) Resisting Arrest (Misdemeanor) with a bail of $20,000.00.