Burglary suspect flees on electric scooter, apprehended by police
WEST ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - According to a criminal complaint released by the Dakota County Attorney's Office, West St Paul Police were dispatched to the Somerset Green Apartments in West St Paul for the reports of someone breaking into the laundry machines at the apartment complex. When police arrived, a man matching the description fled the scene on an electric scooter before officers could tackle the man, it was reported.
According to the criminal complaint, this occurred around 7:52 PM on Sunday, March 17, 2024. Police were called after two witnesses saw someone using a tool to break into the laundry machines at the complex. Two laundry machines reportedly received hundreds of dollars in damages from the burglary. The suspect told one of the witnesses that he was visiting a resident in one of the apartments, which police later learned was a vacant apartment.
As officers arrived at the apartment complex, they saw a man who matched the suspect's description given by the two witnesses. Officers reportedly attempted to stop the man by signaling him to stop, but instead, he got on an electric scooter and began to flee on it. That was when officers tackled the man to the ground. Once on the ground, the man continued to try and resist arrest. According to the criminal complaint, the man was later identified as Esteban Contreras, who had an active warrant for his arrest. Court records show that the active warrant was for another 2nd-degree burglary case in Ramsey County, Minnesota.
According to court records, Esteban Contreras reportedly received three Felony charges as a result of this incident, including Burglary in the 2nd Degree (Dwelling), Burglary in the 2nd Degree (Possess Tool), and Possession of Burglary or Theft Tools. His bond was $40,000 with no conditions and $30,000 with conditions. His bond has not been paid, and he remains in custody at Dakota County Jail. His next court date is May 14, 2024, at 1:30 PM. This remains an active case, and Esteban Contreras is considered innocent until proven guilty.
