SALTON CITY, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents assisted Imperial County Sheriff’s Department in arresting a man and recovering a stolen vehicle on Thursday afternoon.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:40 p.m., when El Centro Sector Radio Communications dispatch notified Indio Border Patrol agents that the Imperial County Sheriff’s Department (ICSO) requested assistance in locating and stopping a white 1997 Lincoln Town Car, which was reported stolen. ICSO reported that the vehicle was traveling northbound on Highway 86, heading toward the U.S. Border Patrol Checkpoint located near Salton City.
Agents at the checkpoint acknowledged the request and offered assistance. At approximately 3:50 p.m., agents observed a vehicle matching the description approach the checkpoint, make a sudden U-turn and turn back south. As agents attempted to catch up to the vehicle, the driver drove into the desert and became stuck. The driver exited the vehicle and attempted to abscond.
Agents, who are tracking experts, began to follow the foot sign left by the individual. They were able to track and successfully find the individual. Agents apprehended the man and transported him to the checkpoint for further processing.
Agents conducted records checks, which revealed that the 19-year-old United States citizen, had prior convictions which included “Taking a Vehicle without Owner Consent,” “Possession of a Stolen Vehicle,” and “Inflict Injury Upon a Child”. He was sentenced to 29 days in jail and 36 months’ probation for his crimes.
The El Centro Sector turned over the driver and stolen vehicle to the California Highway Patrol.
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