Full Notification

WHAT: Felony vandalism/graffiti to Train

WHERE: Railroad tracks between Industrial and Tank Farm

WHEN: August 20, 2017, at 1:25 PM

ARRESTS: Melquiedes Anastacio Rodriguez, 24-year-old resident of Santa Maria
One subject is still outstanding

DEPARTMENT CONTACT: Watch Commander (805) 781-7313


On August 20, 2017, at approximately 1:25 PM officers responded to the report of possible trespassers along the railroad tracks near Industrial. Initial officers on scene observed to male subjects actively spray painting or “tagging” the cars of the train that was stopped along the tracks. Other officers arrived on scene and as they went to contact them, the suspects ran in different directions.

After searching several neighborhoods, an Officer located one of the suspects several blocks away. The suspect was caught and arrested after a foot pursuit. The suspect was identified as Melquiedes Anastacio Rodriguez of Santa Maria, CA. He was booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail for violations of 594(b)(1) PC and 148 (a)(1) PC with a bail of $20,000.00.

Union Pacific Railroad was contacted and advised of the vandalism to their equipment. They estimated the replace/repair cost to be over $10,000.00.

One of the subjects is still outstanding. If anyone has any additional information, please contact the San Luis Obispo Police Department at 781-7313.