An Easter Day burglary in Scotts Valley ended in handcuffs—not candy—thanks to the vigilance of a sharp-eyed community member and the swift action of local law enforcement. San Jose resident Joe Pesti, 55, targeted a local business, but his getaway plan unraveled the moment Officer Banke arrived on scene.

In a panic, Pesti attempted to flee, making the unfortunate choice to turn off Mount Hermon Road into a dead-end. After crashing his vehicle into a tree, he tried to run on foot but didn’t get far. Officer Banke quickly closed the distance and took Pesti into custody.

In an unexpected twist, while Officer Banke was securing the arrest, the suspect’s unattended vehicle rolled backward—right into the patrol car—causing minor damage. Despite the bump, the department credits the teamwork between residents and officers for keeping the holiday safe.

Courtesy of Scotts Valley Police Department