A San Angelo Man Gets Arrested for Forgery at Albertsons

A 46-year-old San Angelo remains jailed this afternoon after an attempted forgery at Albertsons, said Officer Tracy Gonzalez, public information officer for SAPD.

Gonzalez said just before midnight, SAPD officers were dispatched to the Albertsons Grocery Store located at 3121 Sunset Drive for the report of a forgery in progress.

Police arrived and attempted to detain the suspect, identified as Bernard Balderaz, 46, but he fled and a chase ensued until officers caught him as he attempted to escape through a nearby open field. Balderaz was taken into custody without further incident.

Gonzalez said during the investigation, officers learned Balderaz had attempted to purchase items from Albertsons using a personal check that appeared to be forged. A detective with the Criminal Investigations Division responded to conduct a follow-up investigation, and learned the check Balderaz attempted to use was stolen during a recent vehicle burglary. During a search of the man, police located the stolen checkbook and a suspected stolen debit card. The items seized and tagged into evidence.

Balderaz was charged with Evading Arrest/Detention and two outstanding County Warrants. Additional charges may be forthcoming pending the outcome of this investigation.

One Patrol Officer received minor injuries during the chase with Balderaz. The officer was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and is expected to recover.