Transient man arrested with batteries following Auburn Home Depot robbery

A transient man was arrested Nov. 29 following a robbery at The Home Depot in Auburn. A Placer County Sheriff's deputy responded to the store at 6:18 p.m. for a robbery in progress. According to the Sheriff's Office, it was reported the suspect assaulted loss prevention when he was confronted. The deputy was advised the suspect left the store and headed toward Willow Creek. The Sheriff's Office reported deputies located the suspect, identified as Michael Anthony Savala, 32, hiding between bushes in the area. A search of Savala's person revealed 11 unopened Pocket Juice batteries. According to the Sheriff's Office, the investigation determined Savala entered The Home Depot through the garden center and made his way into the store, where he began putting batteries into his pants. Savala struck the loss prevention officer and ran off when the individual followed him and identified himself to Savala. Savala was charged with strong-arm robbery. According to the online in-custody report, Savala is being held on a remanding order for probation violation and is ineligible for bail.