Sutter County man sought after reports he tried to run over witness to a theft

The Sutter County Sheriff’s Department is searching for Nicholaus Ryan Riggins, who is suspected of stealing a generator from a home in the town of Rio Oso and then attempting to run over the owner of the stolen property.

The department received a call around 5:20 p.m. on Tuesday reporting the alleged theft and assault. A witness followed the suspect’s Ford Expedition into Yuba County, but was advised to stop for safety, according to Undersheriff Scott Smallwood.

With help from the Wheatland Police Department, the authorities located the suspect’s vehicle with the generator inside. Witnesses reported seeing the suspect flee on foot.

Based on witness testimony and investigation, police showed the victim a photo lineup, from which Riggins was identified, the department said. The Sutter County Sheriff’s Department released information on a Facebook post, to which Riggins may have responded using a pseudonym, Smallwood said.

Police have advised the public to report any sightings of Riggins, but to not make contact with him. Smallwood said he has a history of theft, resisting arrest and possession of a firearm.

This story was originally published August 5, 2020 at 3:55 PM.