PPD on arrest ‘thanks for the assist mother nature’

(PUEBLO, Colo.) — Snow tracks...literally, Pueblo Police Department (PPD) officers had the assist of the year when they caught an alleged burglar red-handed thanks to the weather.

On Thursday morning, Nov. 7, Pueblo officers were dispatched to a burglary alarm at a downtown business. Upon arrival, officers found footprints in the recent snow that led them to the suspected thief, 27-year-old Antonio Factor.

"Rain, snow, and slush can sure complicate the work of the Pueblo Police," PPD wrote via X (formerly known as Twitter) "But sometimes footprints in the snow can help lead to the arrest of a suspected burglar."

How were the police able to find Factor so quickly? Well, the 27-year-old suspect was wearing cleats with a distinctive sole pattern according to PPD, which allowed them to place him inside of the business.

Police said Factor was caught "literally with the bag in hand", as he had an overflowing duffel bag filled with suspected stolen items. The value of the stolen items was estimated to be $1,700 and damage to the business is estimated at $300.

Factor is also suspected to be connected to other burglaries of varying scale in the downtown area.

The 27-year-old was arrested and charged with 2nd degree burglary, burglary – possess tools, 2nd degree burglary – dwelling and criminal mischief. The investigation is still ongoing.

"Great work by all involved and thanks for the assist, Mother Nature."

Anyone with information about this case or any other cases in the downtown area is asked to call PPD at (719)-553-2502.