Monrovia, Calif. – On July 17, two officers from the Monrovia Police Department finally succeeded in arresting a man wanted on a no‑bail probation‑violation warrant after a month‑long chase. The breakthrough came not on a highway but inside a local Panda Express where the officers were on a lunch break.

Background of the pursuit

According to the department, the suspect had been the subject of two prior attempts at arrest. In each instance, he was spotted walking in a public area, only to sprint onto the nearby freeway and evade the officers. Those escapes delayed the department’s efforts to bring him before a court.

Lunch‑room encounter

Body‑camera footage released by the Monrovia Police shows the two officers seated at a table, eating chow mein, when the suspect walked directly into the restaurant. Recognizing him instantly, the officers rose, approached the man and placed him on the ground. The suspect, whose identity has not been released, asked, “What did I do?” One officer replied, “You’ve been wanted. You’ve been running from me for like a month.”

Arrest and next steps

After the suspect was handcuffed, the officers completed their lunch before escorting him to the police station. The department confirmed that the arrest satisfies the outstanding no‑bail warrant and that the suspect will face the appropriate court proceedings.

Police department’s response

Monrovia Police issued a statement saying the incident highlights both the dedication of its officers and a touch of serendipity. “At this point, we’re not sure if it was good police work, bad timing, or the irresistible smell of chow mein,” the department joked, adding that the officers “went back for their food and finished their chow mein.” The department noted that the released video and accompanying social‑media post constitute its full public statement on the matter.

Community impact

Residents of Monrovia have praised the department’s persistence and professionalism. The swift resolution of a month‑long manhunt reassures the community that local law‑enforcement remains vigilant, even during routine moments like a lunch break. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to probation conditions and the consequences of violating court orders.

What’s next?

The suspect will appear before a judge to address the probation violation and any related charges. Monrovia Police continue to monitor the case and will provide updates as the legal process moves forward.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.