East Texas Authorities Searching for Wanted Fugitive

PALESTINE — Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating a wanted fugitive. According to KETK, around 8:30 Saturday night, Palestine Police responded to a disturbance call in the 200 block of Crest Drive. Officers said the received a tip that a wanted man, Jeorge Mendoza, was at the location and may be involved in the incident. Arriving officers noticed Mendoza jump from a vehicle in the driveway and run through the backyard into a wooded area.

Police searched the area and were not able to locate Medoza. Authorities from Palestine Police Department, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, DPS Troopers and Officers from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice helped in the search for Mendoza. TDCJ officers used tracking dogs to assist in the search for Mendoza and a helicopter was also used in the search. Police believe that Mendoza may be armed.

Mendoza was previously involved in another incident with police just over a month ago in Cherokee County. Mendoza is also wanted on several felony charges and should be considered armed and dangerous. He is known to frequent the Westwood area of Palestine.

Mendoza is a 30-year-old Hispanic male, 5’05” tall and weighs 160 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with any information should call the Palestine Police Department at 903-729-2254 or CRIME STOPPERS at 903-729-(TIPS) 8477.