Monterey police arrest shovel-wielding intruder Saturday morning

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Monterey police officers arrested 34-year-old Jose Cruz Rivas of Salinas Saturday morning after he allegedly broke into a residence on Via Buena Vista.

Police say Rivas attacked one of the homeowners with a shovel and, at one point, a flower vase. The homeowner was injured along with the suspect in an ensuing brawl.

As officers tried to subdue the suspect, Rivas allegedly bit one of the officers.

The suspect and victim have no prior relationship, according to police, and the motive is still being investigated.

Rivas was taken to CHOMP for minor injuries and was later booked into the Monterey County Jail for attempted murder, burglary, battery against a peace officer, criminal threats and attempted burglary.

He is being held on $1 million bail.