A wanted felon was arrested Sunday after leading police on a chase that ended inside a baptism service at St. John’s Catholic Church.
Police identified the suspect as Arturo Rodriguezherrera, 40, of Cloverdale, who was already on probation and had several outstanding warrants, including a felony burglary charge in Sonoma County.
Chase through downtown
Officers spotted Rodriguezherrera near Matheson Street around 2:30 p.m. and tried to stop him. He ran instead, sprinting through downtown before pushing open the church doors mid-service. Parishioners looked on in shock as police followed him down the aisle and tackled him in the sanctuary.
Witnesses said the commotion caused a brief panic before officers dragged the suspect outside to complete the arrest.
Struggle on the street
The fight continued for nearly four minutes outside the church, where Rodriguezherrera resisted as multiple officers tried to subdue him. One officer sustained minor injuries.
During a search, police reported finding methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Rodriguezherrera was booked into Sonoma County Jail.
History of arrests
Court records show Rodriguezherrera has a history of theft, burglary and probation violations. Residents familiar with his name said they were not surprised.
“He’s been in trouble before,” one Cloverdale resident commented online after the arrest.
Shocked congregation
Families attending the baptism described feeling startled as the chase spilled into the church. A volunteer said parishioners ended the service with prayers for peace, including for the suspect.
“I’ve lived here decades and never seen anything like it,” one longtime resident said.
Community reaction
Online comments largely praised police for acting quickly in a crowded space and avoiding civilian injuries. Others raised concerns about what might have happened if Rodriguezherrera had been armed.
Still, the overall tone was relief. “Kudos to our local police — they handled a really tough scenario the best they could,” one commenter wrote.
Charges and next steps
Rodriguezherrera faces multiple new charges:
- Felony resisting arrest with violence
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Violation of probation
He also remains subject to the outstanding felony burglary warrant. Legal experts note that violating probation while facing new felonies could mean a lengthy prison term.
As of Monday, Rodriguezherrera remained in custody at Sonoma County Jail awaiting arraignment.
