The City of Lathrop Police Department reported the early morning arrest of two vehicle theft suspects.

The incident occurred at about 2 a.m. Sunday in the area of Golden Spike Trail and Inland Passage Way.

That’s where officers responded to a report of the two suspects attempting to a steal a vehicle – their arrival prompted the suspects to flee.

 “A vehicle pursuit ensued, ending when the suspects crashed into two parked cars. They then attempted to escape on foot by jumping into residential yards but were quickly apprehended,” said Lathrop police via social media.

The suspects were identified as Zien Casillas and Dayjon Pursley, both in their early 20s, from Stockton.

Casillas and Pursley face multiple charges, including attempted vehicle thefts, fleeting from law enforcement, and hit-and-run.

With auto and vehicle parts theft on the rise, police urge residents to take these following preventive measures:

• Use locking lug nuts and steering wheel clubs.

• Etch catalytic converters with your vehicle’s VIN.

• Park in well-lit areas with video surveillance.

Please contact local police immediately upon seeing any suspicious activity.

Ripon Police Department

Ripon police will be among the multiple law enforcement agencies involved in the K-9 training this week at the Mistlin Sports Park, 1201 W. River Road, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“They’ll also be out in nearby neighborhoods for tracking exercises,” said police, who urge residents to stay alert and to not be surprised to see the K-9 teams in action.