Burglary Suspect Allegedly Wields Samurai Sword at Witness

Confronted by a witness in Leisure World Thursday night, a burglary suspect allegedly wielded a “samurai-style” sword and fled, but Seal Beach police officers caught up to him.

The call came in at 7:36 p.m. to a house under construction in the 13000 block of Annondale Drive.

The witness said he confronted the suspect, who produced a samurai-style sword and then fled, according to a Seal Beach Police Department press release.

“During an exhaustive search of the area, officers located the suspect where he was positively identified as the suspect in this case,” said Sgt. Philip L. Gonshak.

Arrested was Jason Chad Johnson, 47, a transient with no known address, officials said. A samurai-style sword was located in his possession along with evidence pertaining to the burglary, according to police. 

“The Seal Beach Police Department is extremely appreciative and thankful to have citizens/residents who look after one another and their properties,” Gonshak said. “Cases like these are a good example of how collaborative efforts with our police department and citizens help bring criminals to justice.”

Johnson was arrested under the suspicion of residential burglary, a felony, and brandishing a deadly weapon, a misdemeanor.