A homeless man who allegedly claimed to have a gun under his jacket was arrested on charges of robbing an east Manteca Subway Sandwich Shop.

The incident unfolded July 9 at 8 p.m. when Manteca Police Officer Eichel entered the Subway Sandwich Shop at 1235 W. Yosemite Ave. to purchase a sandwich during his meal break.

 When he entered, he noticed the suspect — 30-year-old Manteca transient John Catalano — inside holding a soda cup. Catalano had four bags of chips on the table next to him. Eichel was familiar with Catalano from prior contacts.

Eichel greeted Catalano with a “hello” and noticed Catalano was extremely nervous. He stood at the entry door and continued to watch Catalano, believing he had no intention to pay for the chips. Catalano approached the counter and received a sandwich from an employee. At that time, another Subway employee opened the employee access door crying and waving frantically for Eichel to come to her. The employee advised the officer Catalano was trying to rob the store. Catalano was immediately detained.

An investigation revealed Catalano entered Subway and indicated his girlfriend was shorted on a previous order. Catalano told an employee he was armed and to make him a sandwich. He put his hand under his open jacket, near his waistband. He then made reference to having a firearm.

Catalano further told the employee he planned to take chips, cookies, sodas and whatever he wanted and would leave without being charged. Catalano mentioned that it was difficult on the streets and had to do it, referring to the robbery.

Catalano was arrested for robbery and transported to the San Joaquin County Jail. Catalano was found to be unarmed at the time of his arrest.