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Seven arrested in massive drilling rig theft in Barstow after chase

Seven arrested in massive drilling rig theft in Barstow after chase

Police tracked down and arrested seven suspects who were caught stealing a semitrailer in Barstow this week, authorities said.

More than 100 Shark vacuum cleaners valued at more than $23,000 were seized and returned to the victim following the incident, which began around 8:45 p.m. Tuesday with a reported theft at a truck stop in the 2900 block of Lenwood Road. Barstow Police Department.

Police reported that a truck driver saw a group of men stealing items from the trailer of his large truck and hiding them in a van. written statement.

Police recovered more than 100 stolen vacuum cleaners and arrested seven suspects following a major equipment theft in Barstow on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.Police recovered more than 100 stolen vacuum cleaners and arrested seven suspects following a major equipment theft in Barstow on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

Police recovered more than 100 stolen vacuum cleaners and arrested seven suspects following a major equipment theft in Barstow on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

“As (officers) approached the semi-truck, they were spotted by individuals who got into their van and fled the area,” the statement said.

Police followed the fleeing van, which at times traveled on the wrong side of traffic, until it stopped in the area of ​​Osbourne and Agate roads, authorities said. The seven men inside the van all ran in different directions.

With the assistance of a Barstow police K-9 and a San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department helicopter, all seven suspects were captured during a search of the area.

Police said the suspects, all of whom were identified as Los Angeles residents, were arrested on suspicion of burglary, grand larceny and burglary conspiracy.

More: Deputies dismantled methamphetamine laboratory in Phelan, 88 kilos of drugs were seized

The driver was also charged with recklessly evading police

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Barstow police Officer Gavin Riley at (760) 256-2211. Information may also be provided anonymously. We-Tip helpline at (800) 782-7463.

This article first appeared in the Victorville Daily Press: Seven arrested in massive drilling rig theft in Barstow after chase