Witnesses assist in Menifee PD arrest of auto theft suspect

Witnesses to an auto theft assisted in the apprehension of a suspect by Menifee Police Department officers Wednesday, the Menifee PD reported.

Justin Ryan Hopkinson, 36, is in custody awaiting a court appearance Friday morning at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta. He faces three felony charges related to auto theft and possession of a stolen vehicle, according to jail records.

Officers responded to the 26100 block of Newport Road to the report of a stolen vehicle, the Menifee PD reported. The victim and witnesses followed the suspect to the area of Murrieta Road and Craig Avenue, where the suspect fled on foot. Witnesses were able to detain Hopkinson until officers arrived.

Officers discovered Hopkinson has a lengthy history or arrests and was on probation following a burglary conviction.