WATSONVILLE—A man who tried to burglarize a Watsonville residence Wednesday is in custody after a woman living there fought him off and held him there with the help of her teen children, Watsonville Police spokeswoman Michelle Pulido said in a press release.
Salvador Leonor, 48, was charged with burglary, assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a controlled substance. He was already on parole for previous burglary charges, and also faces a parole violation. He was booked into Santa Cruz County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bail, jail records showed.
According to Pulido, the woman and her children had just returned to their Holly Drive home when they noticed their window had been tampered with.
As they attempted to open the front door, they encountered Leonor, who pushed the door shut from the inside of the home, Pulido said.
The woman struggled with Leonor, and he pulled a knife and threatened to stab the victims, Pulido said. She then yanked the knife from him and pinned him down with the help of her kids and a good samaritan.
The mother received medical aid at the scene for a large cut on her hand, Pulido said.
Pulido says that officers never encourage or recommend that anyone confront or engage a suspect in situations like this. Instead, try to leave the area and call 911 to provide suspect description and other pertinent information.
“You don’t know how dangerous they can be,” she said. “In this case the mom’s instincts kicked in, and you don’t mess with a mother.”
Jonesin’ junkie on parole.
Makes one wonder, where was the hubby?
Hubby? We don’t need no stinkin’ hubby.
quite a story. thanks, Michelle , for reporting this to the Pajaronian. Mom is brave and courageous. what a wonderful example she is to her kids and her neighbors. Bless her and her children.
If she had a gun that cut on her hand would not have happened and that man would not be alive. Thankfully for him we live in a liberal place and he will be out on bail soon if not already. How do we know he uses the male pronouns did anyone ask just to be sure. We have to create a safe environment for everyone. Just saying 💁🏽♀️