Albuquerque Police Apprehend Shoplifting Suspect in Horse Chase

Albuquerque police officers on horseback corralled a shoplifting suspect on West Central Avenue. Mark Chacon, 30, faced charges of shoplifting, resisting arrest, and possession of drug paraphernalia following the incident on March 20.

Albuquerque Police Department

Body Cam Footage Caught The Chase

The Albuquerque Police Department shared footage of the unique pursuit on its Facebook page, showcasing officers galloping through strip malls and asphalt to apprehend the suspect.

The lapel camera video captured the pursuit as an officer rode beneath the overhang of a Walgreens, with Chacon fleeing through the parking lot. Frantic employees confirmed the theft as the officer, embodying a cowboy persona, urged his horse forward, commanding Chacon to halt.

The Suspect Is Surrounded

Despite Chacon's attempts to evade the equine pursuer, three officers swiftly surrounded him in the middle of the road. Despite protests of innocence, Chacon was handcuffed and detained.

According to the criminal complaint, a Walgreens manager reported the theft, leading officers to recover over $230 worth of stolen goods from Chacon. Additionally, they found drug paraphernalia commonly associated with fentanyl use.

Albuquerque Police Department

Not His First Arrest

Chacon, known for prior arrests related to drug offenses and property crimes, was released the following day. However, his freedom was short-lived as two arrest warrants were soon issued against him for separate incidents involving property damage and drug possession during another shoplifting attempt.

Chacon's whereabouts remain unknown as efforts to reach him for comment have been unsuccessful.