Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department this afternoon investigated a home invasion robbery after receiving word that three white males entered a home on the 1800 block of Walnut Avenue at about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, and tied up a woman before stealing undisclosed items.

The culprits were last seen running through a cornfield next to the home, said Deputy Raj Singh of the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department. At least one of the suspects was armed, Singh said, though sheriff's officials did not want to disclose further details.

After the robbers left, the woman was eventually able to untie herself and contact 911, Singh said.

Sheriff's deputies, K9 units, a helicopter and Patterson and Newman police searched the area for about three hours but ultimately called off the search at 5:30 p.m.

Police blocked off Elm Avenue at Las Palmas Avenue and portions of Walnut Avenue as well.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact the sheriff's department at 525-7114 or Patterson Police Services at 892-5071.

Callers can also leave anonymous tips by calling Crime Stoppers, 521-4636. Tipsters also can email tips at www.modestopolice.com/CrimeStoppers or text them to CRIMES (274637) by typing "Tip"704" plus the message and be eligible for a cash reward.