A gun and a knife were used as equalizers this week in disputes between homeless individuals over $200 and an alleged bicycle theft on the streets of Manteca.
Shortly before 10 p.m. Wednesday in the 1400 block of West Yosemite, a fight between two homeless men over the theft of a bicycle left a 28-year-old victim with a slash across his face. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Police were unable to locate the suspect and the victim was said to be uncooperative with officers.
Another pair of homeless men went face-to-face on Sephos Street south of the 120 Bypass when one brandished a handgun in his waistband and took $200 from the victim and fled in a light-colored Chevy.  Police said their gang team located the car a short time later but found no gun in the vehicle.  Again, the victim was unwilling to talk with officers. 
To contact Glenn Kahl, email gkahl@mantecabulletin.com.