A series of car thefts in Denver and on the Western Slope that occurred between Oct. 25 and Oct. 30 were gang-related, authorities say.
According to a news release from the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, three gang members living in Garfield County are facing multiple charges in relation to the crime spree.
The three gang members — all juveniles — are validated Sureño gang members, according to the release.
I.C.E. Homeland Security Investigations is assisting in the investigation of the teenage boys involved, and already has placed a hold on one.
Investigators believe at this point that the three gang members stole a total of seven cars: five from the Pitkin and Garfield County area, one from the Steamboat Springs area, and one from Denver.
Investigators also believe the three are responsible for eight car break-ins, where they stole miscellaneous electronics, and a handgun in one case.
The handgun was recovered while one of the three members was attempting to steal another vehicle in New Castle.
In that incident, the vehicle’s owner apprehended and held the boy at gunpoint until officers and deputies arrived to take him into custody.
The subsequent investigation was a joint effort involving multiple agencies, and did result in the recovery of the seven stolen vehicles.
According to Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario, the outcome of this investigation demonstrates the “importance of the cooperation between local and federal law enforcement agencies,” and “also demonstrates that dangerous criminal gang activity is present in our communities.”
The news release also reminds the public to always remove keys and lock their cars. Recently documented vehicle thefts, including the above, involved unlocked vehicles, including some with that had the keys inside.
