Two individuals have been apprehended by homicide investigators from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office in relation to a murder and arson incident that occurred in early November.
During a special interview with Orko Manna from KCRA 3, Detective Neay Chhlang mentioned that both individuals were seen at the location of the crime. Additionally, they were later recognized in the surveillance footage captured by cameras in the area.
Chhlang acknowledged the crucial role played by witnesses and the community in apprehending the suspects involved in the homicide.
Mike Plog, a 65-year-old man, was shot and killed by two men inside his home on Del Norte Boulevard. The suspects then set the house on fire. Chhlang reported the incident occurred in the early morning hours of November 2nd.
Michael Wheat, aged 42, was apprehended by detectives on November 12 in Sacramento County for his involvement in a crime. He was presented in court on Tuesday and is now facing four serious charges, which include murder and arson. Chhlang revealed that Wheat has a history of violent offenses.
Chhlang stated that Michael Wheat has a long-standing record not just with our department, but also with law enforcement as a whole.
After questioning Wheat, collecting testimonies from witnesses, and reviewing surveillance videos, investigators concluded that the second person involved in the homicide was Dominic Perez, a 20-year-old. Chhlang mentioned that Perez was found in Long Beach, which is believed to be his previous residence and where he may still have ties. The sheriff’s office collaborated with the Long Beach Police Department to locate Perez.
Chhlang stated that they received notification and dispatched detectives to apprehend him by flying out there.
Perez was arrested by sheriff’s detectives on Wednesday afternoon. It is currently unknown whether Perez is still in Southern California or being taken back to Sacramento County.
Chhlang mentioned that Perez, Wheat, and Plog were acquainted with each other in some way, but he didn’t provide any details.
Plog’s family came together for a visitation at a funeral home in Carmichael on Wednesday evening. Mary, his sister, expressed her gratitude that the two individuals believed to be responsible for his death are now in custody, although his passing remains incredibly painful.
Mary expressed her happiness that the culprits were apprehended and would no longer be able to harm anyone else or any other family. She consi
dered it a tragic event. Mary also wanted to extend her gratitude to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, the detectives, and all the individuals who dedicated their efforts to solve the case and make the arrests.
Despite everything, she expressed that the void left by Plog’s death will never be filled in her heart. “I adore my brother and his absence is felt deeply,” she shared.
She shared that her love for her brother is irreplaceable and the pain of his loss will always be with her. “I miss him terribly,” she said.
Wheat’s next court appearance is scheduled for November 27th.
