LAPLACE — Police say a Jefferson Parish man broke into several LaPlace homes in broad daylight Saturday before authorities tracked him down hiding in tall grass.

St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Jonathan Mehrtens, 27, of River Ridge, at 3:55 p.m. Saturday in the 1700 block of East Frisco Drive in LaPlace.

Authorities had responded to report of a man entering and attempting to enter several cars and residences in the block.

“Deputies located the man attempting to hide in high grass along the canal bank behind residences on East Frisco Drive,” Sheriff Mike Tregre said. “He had with him a bag containing several cell phones, cell phone chargers and his wallet.”

Tregre said victims told deputies Mehrtens entered houses and attempted to enter a vehicle. When the victims confronted Jonathan, he asked to use their phone or to do yard work.

“When the victims told him no, he would leave and move further down the street,” Tregre said.

Mehrtens is booked with attempted simple burglary, probation violation and two counts of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.

He remains in custody in lieu of a $60,000 bond and a parole hold.

Tregre stressed the investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office TIPS line at 985-359-TIPS or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. Those who call Crimestoppers do not have to testify and may qualify for a cash reward.

Tips can be submitted at stjohnsheriff.org/submitatip.php.