Summerland, Calif. – The Summerland burglary suspect from early today has been apprehended thanks to an aware community member who spotted the subject. Shortly after deputies took an initial report of a burglary that had occurred in the 800-block of Sand Point Road, we shared suspect photos with the public in an attempt to identify him and received several helpful tips. At approximately 1:24 p.m., Sheriff’s Dispatch received a call that the suspect was in the area of Via Real and Santa Monica in Carpinteria.

Deputies quickly responded to the area and detained 30-year-old Halen Bretz of Santa Barbara. Bretz was positively identified by a witness and is being booked at the Main Jail for brandishing a knife (misdemeanor), burglary (felony), and dissuading a witness (felony). Bretz is being held without bail on a probation detainer.

The Sheriff’s Office appreciates community members who were keeping an eye out for this suspect and those who called in to offer information. Community assistance was key to the safe and successful apprehension of this suspect.