LAKEWOOD – A man harassing people with a machete late at night was arrested without injuries to the public.
Max Sanchez, 22, of Lakewood, was allegedly in the area of Forest Avenue and 6th Street at around 11:30 p.m. on March 13 brandishing a machete. He approached five pedestrians. Although he didn’t specifically threaten them, his menacing behavior led the pedestrians to flee and call authorities.
He was quickly located and taken into custody without incident, police said. Even though he caused fear and not physical injuries, he received numerous charges for Assault and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. The machete was recovered and Sanchez was jailed.
Police said they are still investigating open cases where he might have been involved.
Police aso said in an email: “although last night’s incident occurred in a neighborhood where a large portion of Orthodox Jewish families reside, there is nothing that indicates that Sanchez chose to menace the victims based on their religious beliefs.”
The Lakewood Police Department would like to thank members of Lakewood Civilian Safety Watch/Shomrim who were present in the area and assisted in his apprehension. In addition, we would like to recognize and credit the victims for their efforts in providing pertinent information all while seeking a position of safety. Despite the Lakewood Police Department best efforts to provide excellent service, we strongly remind our citizens that if they See Something, Say Something.”
Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.
