VALLEJO — A man wanted on outstanding warrants in El Dorado County was arrested last week after Vallejo police recovered more than $1,700 in stolen jackets from a Dodge Charger leaving a Gateway Plaza store, authorities said.
Vallejo officers were dispatched around 2:27 p.m. on Nov. 20 after employees reported that two men fled the business in the 100 block of Plaza Drive with armfuls of merchandise. A witness in the parking lot provided officers with a license plate number and a photograph, which automated camera data later matched to a vehicle that had just exited the shopping center.
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Police located the Dodge Charger on Sonoma Boulevard near Florida Street and conducted a traffic stop in the 200 block of Marin Street, according to a statement the department released Wednesday on social media.
A search of the vehicle uncovered 12 jackets, each still bearing the store’s price tags, in both the trunk and back seat. Store employees later confirmed the items had been stolen and identified one of the occupants as a suspect.
Investigators determined the driver had $45,000 in outstanding warrants from Madera County and El Dorado County, including prior felony convictions for burglary, fraud, grand theft and possession of stolen property. Police said he was taken into custody on suspicion of possessing stolen property, conspiracy and driving with a suspended license in addition to the warrants.
The passenger, identified as a Stockton resident, was arrested on suspicion of grand theft and possession of stolen property.
“This quick arrest was possible thanks to a vigilant witness who provided immediate details,” Vallejo police said in their statement. “Community reporting continues to play a vital role in identifying and apprehending suspects.”
The case involving the driver’s El Dorado County warrants is expected to be referred to local authorities.
