Newport police arrest suspected bike thief

Newport Beach police have arrested a Fullerton man they believe was spraying graffiti on a school playground before fleeing on a stolen bicycle, authorities said Tuesday.

Erik Bahena, 20, was taken into custody Sunday after allegedly spray painting a wall at Newport Elementary School.

Bahena allegedly stole a bike in his attempt to flee from police, who were aided by Huntington Beach’s police helicopter.

He was arrested at Ninth Street and West Bay Avenue, about half a mile from the Balboa Peninsula school, police said.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of possession of stolen property, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Department records.

— Lauren Williams

Twitter: @lawilliams30