Homeless Man Causes $25K Damage at Walmart, Caught Eating and Drinking Products from Shelves

California – Police in Santa Fe arrested 53-year-old Rodolpho Mendiola, a California man, on Christmas Eve after he allegedly caused $25,000 in damage at a local Walmart. Mendiola, who is homeless and struggles with addiction and mental health issues, broke into the store and spent the night “eating and drinking” off the shelves while defecating in several aisles.

According to Santa Fe police, Mendiola hid in the clothing section as the store closed, filling shopping carts with items he had no intention of paying for. He also caused significant damage to electronics and display cases. This was not Mendiola’s first run-in with the law at the same Walmart; he had previously been involved in two other incidents at the store.

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Mendiola is facing multiple charges, including aggravated battery and criminal trespass. California’s new law classifies theft of over $950 worth of merchandise as a felony, adding to the charges against him. Mendiola had been out on pretrial release for an October case where he had also been arrested for causing damage at a Dollar General store.

Mendiola’s history of homelessness, mental health struggles, and substance abuse have been cited as contributing factors in his criminal behavior. His defense attorney, Henry Emerson, emphasized the ongoing housing challenges in the community, especially during the winter months, while standing by the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.”

The incident was reported when a Walmart employee found Mendiola inside the store on Christmas Day. After being apprehended, Mendiola admitted to sneaking in before closing on Christmas Eve and hiding in a clothing display overnight. He confessed to taking a bottle of liquor from the store and loading three shopping carts with items for camping, believing others were out to get him.

Surveillance footage confirmed Mendiola’s actions, showing him loading carts, consuming products, and defecating in the aisles. His past court records indicate ongoing battles with addiction and mental health, though there has been some progress in his treatment. A probation officer noted that Mendiola had relapsed after running out of medication for his mental health issues, but he had been honest and apologetic about the relapse.

Mendiola remains in custody as the legal process continues.