Man Arrested Along with Burglary Suspect for Assaulting the Burglar

On July 17, 2025, at approximately 6:53 p.m., Pueblo Police officers were dispatched to the 1700 block of Joliet Avenue on a report of three males beating up another male who was caught allegedly burglarizing a home in the neighborhood.

Officers arrived on scene and located a male that was bound with black and yellow duct tape in the front yard of a residence. Officers learned the burglary suspect, Joseph Mares, along with several other individuals, were alleged to have broken into a nearby home. Three male suspects, including Cruz Alarcon, chased the burglary suspects and caught one in a front yard on Joliet Avenue.

An officer was able to obtain video surveillance showing evidence that indicated Alarcon used excessive force in taking Mares into custody.

In Colorado, a citizen's arrest is permitted under C.R.S. 16-3-201, but only when a crime is committed in the citizen's presence. This means the citizen must personally witness the crime or have probable cause to believe it is ongoing or just completed. If these conditions are met, a private citizen can use reasonable force to make the arrest and prevent escape.

However, making an illegal citizen's arrest can lead to criminal charges like assault, false imprisonment, or even kidnapping.

The burglary suspect Joseph Mares, 21, was transported to a local hospital for minor injuries and upon release from the medical facility, was arrested and charged with 2nd Degree Burglary.

Cruz Alarcon, 26, was arrested and charged with 2nd Degree Assault and Felony Menacing with a Real/Simulated Weapon.

Both Mares and Alarcon have since bonded out of jail.

The information contained in this press release is based on preliminary information available at the time of its drafting. The Pueblo Police Department's understanding of this incident may change as additional evidence is collected, analyzed, and reviewed. The purpose of this press release is to provide timely information to the public. In consideration of the foregoing, please be advised that any statements expressed herein are subject to change at any time.

Bianca Hicks
Public Information Officer and Community Engagement Manager
Contact: 719-553-2517

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