Press Releases
In reference to today’s arrest of former San Angelo Chief of Police Tim R. Vasquez, the arrest is the result of over four years of investigation between the Texas Rangers and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Although the San Angelo Police Department’s involvement was very limited, we fully cooperated with the Texas Rangers and FBI during their respective ongoing investigations. The San Angelo Police Department, along with our law enforcement partners, have a very strong working relationship with our colleagues at the Federal, State and local levels.” — Chief of Police Frank Carter
Any questions relating to this case should be directed to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Any future release of information will be at the direction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office - Northern District of Texas.
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On Thursday, January 16, 2020, the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division conducted a stabbing investigation in the 3100 block of West Beauregard.
The preliminary investigation revealed that the victim of the stabbing, a 27-year-old San Angelo man, had been assaulting a 35-year-old woman when the woman’s juvenile son stabbed the man in an effort to end the assault on his mother.
The man was transported to Shannon Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.
This is an ongoing investigation and no other information is available for release.
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January 13, 2020 — A San Angelo Patrol Officer located a stolen 2007 Toyota Avalon parked at a residence in the 600 block of North Archer Street this afternoon. This was the third stolen vehicle this patrolman has located in two days.
Officer C. Barker located the first one, a red 2017 Kia, unoccupied in the 1800 block of North Street yesterday. The second, a silver 2018 Ford F-150, was also spotted yesterday leaving the same residence on North Archer where today’s Avalon was recovered. The driver was taken into custody without incident and identified as 29-year-old Estevan Murillo.
Murillo was booked into the Tom Green County Jail for Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle. Bond was set at $10,000.00
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Pursuant to the ongoing investigation of narcotics trafficking in and around San Angelo, members of the Department’s Street Crimes Division seized approximately two and one-half (2.5) kilos of Methamphetamine from a location in northeast San Angelo on Friday, January 10, 2020.
In addition to the narcotics, SCD Investigators seized two firearms and approximately $5,400.00 in U.S. currency.
The investigation is ongoing and details are being withheld due to pending Federal Indictments.
The Department’s Patrol Division, K9 Unit, and our DEA partners across the State assisted with Friday’s operation.
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January 8, 2020 — Just after 3:30 p.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of West 11th Street to assist City Marshals with the apprehension of a wanted felon.
While on scene, the SAPD Officer and Marshals observed the subject at the back door armed with edged weapons.
Additional units surrounded the house while officers maintained negotiations but the subject retreated inside. After a short time, the subject appeared at the front door but he disregarded commands to drop his weapons and less-lethal beanbag rounds were utilized in an attempt to end the standoff.
After continued negotiations with two detectives assigned to the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, the subject surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody without incident at approximately 5:00 p.m.
The subject, 41-year-old Andres Rodriguez, was evaluated at the scene by medical personnel for minor injuries he sustained from the beanbag round.
Approximately fifteen (15) San Angelo Police Department Officers and City Marshals collectively responded to contain the incident and ensure the safety of nearby residents.
Rodrigues’s Felony Warrant of Arrest was for Failure to Register – Sex Offender.
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January 8, 2020 — Around 10:00 a.m. San Angelo Police were dispatched to West Avenue Q and Knickerbocker Road for the report of a traffic collision involving a pedal cyclist and a utility trailer.
The pedal cyclist, a 52-year-old San Angelo woman, was transported to San Angelo Community Medical Center with non-incapacitating injuries.
A preliminary crash investigation revealed the pedal cyclist was traveling northbound on South Bryant Boulevard when she disregarded the traffic signal and collided with an in-tow utility trailer that was eastbound on West Avenue Q. The operator towing the trailer was not injured.
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Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division have arrested a 14-year-old male in connection to the shooting of a 14–year-old male in the 1600 block of Volney Street on January 6, 2020. The teen has been charged with Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon.
This is the second arrest since another male juvenile, age 16, was apprehended on Monday, January 6, 2020.
This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when it becomes available.
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January 6, 2020 — Pursuant to the ongoing investigation of narcotics trafficking in and around San Angelo, members of the Department’s Street Crimes Division seized approximately seven (7) kilos of Methamphetamine from two locations in northwest San Angelo.
No arrests were made at this time and the investigation is ongoing. Details are being withheld at this time pending Federal Indictments.
The Department’s Patrol Division and K9 Unit assisted with today’s operation as well as our DEA partners across the State.
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January 6, 2020 — Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit are conducting a death investigation of a 5-month-old San Angelo boy.
Just before 2:30 p.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to Kathy’s Babies, 2314 Carlton Way for the report of an unconscious infant.
The infant was transported to Shannon Medical Center and later pronounced deceased. The Lubbock County Medical Examiner’s Office will be conducting an autopsy — which is standard for unknown causes of death in children younger than ten years of age.
This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when it becomes available.
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Update: January 6, 2020, 8:00 p.m.
Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division have arrested a 16-year-old male in connection to this morning’s shooting of a 14–year-old male in the 1600 block of Volney Street. The teen has been charged with Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon.
This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when it becomes available.
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January 6, 2020 — Just before 2:30 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to the 1600 block of Volney Street for the report of a shooting victim.
Upon arrival, officers located a 14-year-old male who was suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The officers rendered first aid to the teen before his transport to a nearby hospital. He is reportedly in stable condition.
The initial investigation indicates that this is an isolated incident and is not a random act of violence.
If you have any information about the incident please call the San Angelo Police Department at (325) 657-4315. To remain anonymous tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
This is an active investigation and no other information is available at this time.
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Around 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2020, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the 3500 block of Grape Creek Road for the report of a shooting victim.
Upon arrival, officers located a 33-year-old man lying in a driveway suffering from gunshot wounds and other injuries sustained in an apparent assault. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital via ambulance. His injuries were said to be non-life threatening.
The victim was initially located by a construction crew that was working nearby after they heard someone calling out for help. One of the workers rendered first aid until first responders arrived.
This is an active investigation and no other information is available for release at this time.
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December 30, 2019 — San Angelo Police are investigating a robbery that occurred at the Allsup’s located at 4301 South College Hills Boulevard. The incident occurred just before 7:00 a.m.
A black male in his late teens to early twenties entered the store and demanded money from the clerk at gunpoint. The suspect fled the store and possibly left the area in a dark-colored vehicle driven by another person. No one was injured during the incident.
No arrests have been made. If you have any information about the suspect(s) identity or whereabouts please contact (325) 657-4315. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777and follow the prompts.
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December 27, 2019 — The San Angelo Police Department is seeking information about a Deadly Conduct (Shooting) incident that occurred in the 1900 block of Live Oak Street just before 11:30 a.m.
A preliminary field investigation revealed that the suspect(s) fired several rounds towards a residence and parked vehicle. A 24-year-old man inside the residence suffered minor injuries from flying debris. No other injuries have been reported at this time.
The suspect, described as male and wearing a black hoodie, may have fled the scene on foot headed southbound in the alley between South Tyler and South Harrison towards Avenue J.
If you have information about the suspect(s) identity or whereabouts, or if you have surveillance video from the following area, please contact the San Angelo Police Department at (325) 657-4315. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
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Just before 1:00 a.m. on December 25, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the report of a reckless driver traveling south in the northbound lanes of the 3600 block of North Bryant Boulevard.
Upon nearing the area, a San Angelo Police Patrol Officer observed a pickup truck traveling against oncoming traffic near the 2800 block. Soon after, the officer observed the truck leave the roadway and strike a light pole. The force of the collision caused the truck to roll several times before coming to rest on its roof.
The officer located the truck’s male driver unconscious and outside the truck. The man, later identified as 18-year-old Marcos Huerta Jr., had been ejected from the truck through the windshield. Huerta regained consciousness at the scene and was able to speak with officers and Fire Department Medics before his transport to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment of non-incapacitating injuries.
Following the field investigation and Huerta’s release from medical care, Huerta was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and transported to the Tom Green County Jail.
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December 21, 2019 — San Angelo Police are investigating a drive-by shooting that occurred in the 700 block of San Jacinto Street just before 2:00 a.m. One victim, an 8-year-old child, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of non life-threatening injuries.
The Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is seeking information about the suspect(s) identity and whereabouts. If you have any information or home surveillance video from the surrounding area, please contact the San Angelo Police Department at (325) 657-4315. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777and follow the prompts.
This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when it becomes available.
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December 16, 2019 — Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit are conducting a death investigation of an 8-month-old San Angelo girl.
Just before 12:30 p.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to the Bella Vista Apartments located in the 4100 block of Ben Ficklin Drive for the report of an unconscious, unresponsive baby.
Justice of the Peace J.P. McGuire also responded and requested the child’s body be sent to the Lubbock County Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy — a standard for unknown causes of death in children younger than ten years of age.
This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when it becomes available.
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December 5, 2019 — A 71-year-old San Angelo man who threw hot coffee at an officer before assaulting her is behind bars.
The incident occurred around 8:35 a.m. after police were dispatched to the 7-11 at 2202 North Chadbourne Street for the report of an unwanted subject who was suspected of shoplifting.
Upon arrival, the officer learned Benny Salinas had been asked to leave the store by a clerk multiple times but refused. Shortly after the officer asked the man to leave he became aggressive and threw a cup of hot coffee at her and struck her as she attempted to take him into custody.
The officer was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and later released.
Salinas was charged with Assault on Public Servant, Criminal Trespass and Class C Misdemeanor Theft. Salinas was transported to the Tom Green County Jail. Bond was set at $924.00.
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December 4, 2019 — San Angelo Police are searching for suspects involved in an early morning drive-by shooting that occurred in North San Angelo.
Just after 2:00 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to the unit block of East 37th Street for the report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers discovered a residence and vehicle that had been shot multiple times. No injuries were reported.
If you have information about the incident or suspect(s) involved or surveillance video from the area, please call Detective Anderson at (325) 659-8012. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
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If you recently encountered a San Angelo Police Officer with excessive facial hair, the break from the Department’s policy for grooming standards was authorized and encouraged by Police Chief Frank Carter.
During the month of November, San Angelo Police Department Officers participated in the United Way’s “Beards United” fundraising campaign.
San Angelo Police raised $700 during the campaign, exceeding their $500 goal. Although most of the participants were male, some female officers solicited donations to aid the event.
Monies raised will go to the United Way of the Concho Valley to fund nineteen local programs that fight for the health, education, and financial stability of all people in the Concho Valley.
Last year, the United Way of the Concho Valley helped over 40K local people.
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A 19-year-old San Angelo man who was captured on home surveillance video stealing a Bluetooth speaker from the backyard of a Southland residence has been identified.
The suspect came to Police Department Headquarters early this morning to speak with authorities. During an interview with a Criminal Investigations Division Detective, the suspect revealed he had previously been inside the victim’s backyard doing construction work [employed by a contractor] and knew exactly where the speaker was located. It was also discovered that the suspect was alerted to the San Angelo Police Department’s published viral video by a friend who encouraged him to turn himself in.
Prior to the interview, the suspect reportedly returned the stolen speaker to the victim’s residence. Authorities have confirmed the item’s return.
The video of the theft was shared on the Neighbors by Ring app and posted to the San Angelo Police Department’s Facebook page shortly after the investigation began on Monday, December 2, 2019. Within an hour of the post, the Department began receiving tips naming the suspect.
The San Angelo Police Department continues to encourage residents to secure/lock doors, windows, and gates, to follow the Department’s Facebook and Twitter Pages for crime alerts and prevention information, and to sign up for the Neighbors by Ring app. Residents can text ‘StaySafe’ to 555888 from their smartphone to download the Neighbors app for free on iOS and Android and use the app to; join their neighborhood, share crime and safety-related videos, photos and text-based posts; and receive real-time safety alerts from their neighbors, local law enforcement and the Ring team. For more information, visit www.ring.com/neighbors.
The investigation has been referred to the County Attorney’s Office for review.
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On Monday, December 2, 2019, the San Angelo Police Department’s Traffic Section and a Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office Deputy conducted LIDAR Traffic Enforcement in six (6) school zones. A total of twenty-two (22) citations and six (6) warnings were issued.
Following the school zone enforcement, LIDAR was conducted in the 1700 block of East Houston Harte’s westbound traffic. A total of forty-nine (49) citations and four (4) warnings were issued.
Citation Breakdown:
School Zones
Other/Misc. Violations: 3
No Driver’s License: 1
No Insurance: 1
Speeding: 17
Warnings: 6
Houston Harte
Speeding: 43 (Highest speed: 85 mph.)
Driving While License Invalid: 1
Other/Misc. Violations: 5
Warnings: 4
Holiday safety is an issue through mid-January. Many people choose to travel by car during the holidays, which has the highest fatality rate of any major form of transportation based on fatalities per passenger mile. In 2017, 329 people died on New Year's Day, 463 on Thanksgiving Day and 299 on Christmas Day, according to Injury Facts (NSC). Alcohol impairment was involved in about a third of the fatalities.
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A 24-year-old San Angelo man who was contemplating suicide on Thanksgiving is alive, thanks to two San Angelo Police Department Officers who were in the right place at the right time.
Just before 7:00 p.m., San Angelo Public Safety Communications received multiple phone calls concerning a man who appeared to be on the verge of jumping off the bridge at Van Buren and Freeland.
Officers arrived within minutes and located the distraught man sitting outside of the railing.
Officers established rapport with the man and learned he was suicidal. During the encounter, the officers seized an opportunity to pull the man from the railing when he became distracted by answering his phone. The man was taken into custody by Tom Green County Mental Health Deputies.
The San Angelo Police Department believes Officers Edward Salmon and Steven Martinez were near the incident at the right time and hope the man receives the help that he needs and deserves.
If you are thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, please reach out for help. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 (English) or 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish). Calls are confidential and free. Talking with someone about your thoughts and feelings can save your life.
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Two men accused of stabbing a 37-year-old San Angelo man during a weekend altercation at a local bar have been arrested. Police were alerted to the incident by Shannon Medical Center staff who called to report the victim’s injuries.
The accused, 45-year-old Jose Hurtado and 31-year-old Arturo Sanchez-Melendez, have been charged with Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon Causes Serious Bodily Injury. The pair was apprehended at Narro’s Bar and Cantina, 1324 North Bell Street.
A preliminary investigation revealed Hurtado and Sanchez-Melendez assaulted the victim during an altercation in the parking lot just before 1:45 a.m. on Sunday, November 24, 2019. Both men were booked into the Tom Green County Jail. Bonds were set at $25K.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials requested that Sanchez-Melendez be placed on ‘ICE Hold’ due to his unconfirmed identity and status.
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On Monday, December 2, 2019, the San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is inviting victims of burglary to Police Headquarters, 401 E. Beauregard, in an attempt to identify stolen property that has been recovered during recent burglary investigations.
Victims must bring at least one form of identification along with a Police Incident Report that that has been filed prior to November 18, 2019. This one-time event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please direct inquiries to Detective Welch at (325) 657-4308.
If you believe you are a victim of burglary (storage unit, vehicle, etc.), please file a report with the San Angelo Police Department as soon as possible online at http://www.sanangelopolice.org/coplogic or call dispatch non-emergency (325) 657-4315 to have an officer respond. Do not make an online report for burglaries or thefts involving firearms, crime in progress, if the suspect is at the scene, or if the crime occurred outside the city limits. Please provide a detailed inventory of what property was stolen.
If you rent or own storage units in San Angelo, investigators urge you to regularly check your unit(s) and promptly file a police report if you believe you have been burglarized.
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On Tuesday, November 19, 2019, the San Angelo Police Department’s Traffic Section conducted LIDAR Traffic Enforcement in ten (10) school zones. A total of twenty-four (24) citations and ten (10) warnings were issued.
Following the school zone enforcement, LIDAR was conducted in the 4300 block of West Houston Harte’s westbound traffic. A total of sixty-two (62) citations and fourteen (14) warnings were issued.
Citation Breakdown:
School Zones
Other/Misc. Violations: 7
No Insurance: 1
No Seat belt: 1
Speeding: 15
Warnings: 10
Houston Harte
Speeding: 47 (Highest speed: 91 mph.)
Driving While License Invalid: 2
Other/Misc. Violations: 9
No Driver’s License: 2
No Insurance: 2
Warnings: 14
The life of a child is priceless and not worth the risk by speeding through a school zone. Children are more vulnerable than adults to being hit by a car — they tend to be less cautious than adults, are less visible due to their size, and they are less likely to survive a hit by a vehicle.
When approaching a school zone, slow down. The few seconds you may save speeding through a school zone is not worth the fine, but more importantly, it’s not worth the life of a child.
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November 16, 2019 — Just before 1:30 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to West Beauregard and South Park for the report of a single-vehicle rollover crash where the driver fled the vehicle after colliding with Peasant Village Restaurant.
A witness relayed information that the vehicle’s driver was running eastbound from the crash. Responding officers located the driver, identified as 39-year-old Oscar M. Bernal, at Santa Fe Park.
Officers located the vehicle’s only passenger lying next to restaurant. The man had been ejected from the vehicle and he was unconscious and not breathing. San Angelo Police and Fire Department personnel performed rescue measures at the scene but the man, later identified as O. Bernal’s brother, 28-year-old Christian Bernal, succumbed to his injuries.
A preliminary crash investigation showed that O. Bernal was operating a Dodge Charger westbound on west Beauregard when he lost control of the vehicle and left the roadway. After leaving the roadway, the vehicle hit a sign and began to roll until it came to rest after colliding with the restaurant. Alcohol was a contributing factor to the crash.
Bernal was initially treated for non-incapacitating injuries at Shannon Medical Center and was later booked into the Tom Green County Jail charged with Intoxication Manslaughter with Vehicle.
The investigation is ongoing.
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San Angelo Police are searching for 24-year-old Kyle Blair Doty. Doty has an active warrant for Online Solicitation of a Minor as well as nine other city warrants.
Doty is 5’10”, approximately 140 lbs. with brown hair and brown eyes. Doty’s whereabouts are unknown. Doty may be working in the oilfield industry and he may be armed.
Investigators with the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division are urging others who may have been victimized by Doty to please come forward and file a police report as soon as possible. Call Dispatch at (325) 657-4315.
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November 1, 2019 — Today, members of the San Angelo Police Department’s Street Crimes Division executed a Search Warrant at a residence in the 700 block of East 22nd Street.
The warrant, issued by Justice of the Peace Eddie Howard, named 60-year-old David Evans to be in possession of narcotics at the residence.
Evans was detained during the search where investigators located and seized a quantity of suspected Heroin and Methamphetamine.
Evans has been charged with Felony 2 Manufacture Delivery Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 and Felony 3 Possession of Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1.
Members of the Department’s Street Crimes Division, Patrol Division, K-9 Unit and the Center for Tactical Medicine assisted with today’s operation.
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November 1, 2019 — Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division have charged 18-year-old Anthony Rodriguez with four counts of Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon in connection with an early morning drive-by shooting outside Club El Patron.
Police were dispatched to the bar located on South Chadbourne Street around 2:45 a.m. for the report of a drive-by shooting with multiple victims. Three victims located at the scene received first aid by officers and citizens before they were transported to a local hospital for treatment of gunshot wounds to their lower extremities. A fourth victim who was shot in the shoulder was transported to an area hospital by private vehicle prior to officer arrival.
Two of the male victims, ages 21, were treated and later released but a 22-year-old female and a 22-year-old male required emergency surgery and are reportedly in stable condition.
Shortly after the investigation began, responding officers received information that the suspect was at a residence located in the 700 block of Era Street. Officers converged on the home and subsequently took Rodriguez into custody without incident.
Following Rodriguez’s arrest, investigators obtained a search warrant for the residence on Era. Four firearms were located and seized — one gun was confirmed to be stolen.
The preliminary investigation has revealed that prior to the shooting; Rodriguez was driving in the parking lot when he collided with two parked vehicles. When bystanders alerted Rodriguez to his actions, Rodriguez responded with gunfire.
Additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.
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October 31, 2019 — Just before 1:40 p.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to the area of Sherwood Way and Avenue N for the report of a rollover vehicle crash with possible entrapment.
Arriving officers discovered a 2017 Nissan SUV resting on its roof in HEB’s parking lot. The driver, a 39-year-old woman, had already been assisted out of the vehicle by an off-duty San Angelo Police Officer who was near the crash when it occurred. The woman was wearing a seatbelt and was not injured.
The preliminary crash investigation revealed that the Nissan’s driver had been eastbound on Avenue N when her vehicle was struck by a 2016 Buick passenger car that had exited HEB’s parking lot. The force of the collision caused the Nissan to spin around clockwise and hit the curb, causing it to flip over onto the roof and collide with another vehicle that was unoccupied.
After the first collision, the Buick continued out onto Avenue N where it collided with a 2008 Toyota SUV that had also been traveling east on Avenue N. The Toyota’s driver, a 75-year-old woman, was not injured.
The Buick’s driver, an 87-year-old woman, went to an area hospital by private vehicle for evaluation of non-incapacitating injuries. The woman received a citation for Failure to Yield Right of Way from Private Drive.
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October 30, 2019 — Just before 7:30 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to East 7th and North Chadbourne Street for the report of a vehicle versus pedestrian crash.
The injured pedestrian, a 14-year-old female who was en route to school, was sent to Shannon Medical Center by ambulance for treatment of non-incapacitating injuries.
A preliminary accident investigation revealed the teen was walking westbound on E. 7th, attempting to cross N. Chadbourne during oncoming traffic, when she was struck by a 2012 Nissan Versa that was traveling south on N. Chadbourne.
A review of nearby surveillance video confimed the light for southbound traffic on N. Chadbourne was green, westbound traffic was red.
No citations were issued.
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Earlier this month, San Angelo Police Detectives developed information about two suspects, a U-Haul moving, van and a tan-colored van with stolen plates that were linked to a number of storage room and vehicle burglaries throughout our city.
On October 18th, a Patrol Sergeant located the vehicle, a 1999 Chevrolet Venture, parked at the Fall Creek Apartments. Upon locating the van, members of the Department’s Anti-Crime Unit established surveillance of the area and after a short time the two suspects previously identified through investigation, 32-year-old David Pool and 31-year-old David Pruitt, were observed walking to the van. Both men were taken into custody for drug charges. Pool had previously been charged with a burglary of a storage unit back in August and had an active warrant for his arrest. Detectives obtained information through the investigation that these two suspects used a U-Haul van in the commission of a storage unit burglary, which ultimately led San Angelo Police Department Detectives to locate and seize hundreds of items of suspected stolen property from a hotel room, a storage unit, and a private residence.
Following the pair’s arrest, the detectives began the arduous task of sorting through and cataloging the recovered property. Thus far, seven victims have been contacted about the recovery of their items. Some of the items, including an ASU Girls Basketball Championship ring and the cremated remains of an adult female, have already been reunited with their owners. Department officials will be reaching out to other victims as the remainder of the property is linked to existing reports.
Pool and Pruitt have been charged with Burglary of a Building. Additional charges are pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.
Pool Pruitt
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October 22, 2019 — Two of the three men recently charged with kidnapping a 24-year-old San Angelo woman before forcing her to take part in the October 14, 2019 burglary of a residence on Jomar Street are facing additional kidnapping charges.
As a result of an ongoing investigation, Detectives with the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division developed probable cause to charge 17-year-old Luis Duron and 24-year-old Joshua Gonzalez with an additional charge of Aggravated Kidnapping.
The pair is accused of kidnapping a male juvenile after the teen allegedly engaged in a verbal altercation with Gonzalez at a house party on Evelyn Street earlier this month. During the altercation, Gonzalez reportedly struck the teen in the head with a deadly weapon and later repeatedly assaulted and threatened the teen with his life while the teen was being held against his will.
During his captivity, the teen was forced to contact a family member to “check-in” in order to avoid suspicion about his whereabouts. Investigators determined the teen was restrained in the same fashion and at the same time as the pair’s other victim, Sabrina Orona. The teen eventually fled the house two days later. The investigation is ongoing.
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Previous Release: October 18, 2019
On October 14, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the burglary of a habitation in the 2800 block of Jomar Street. The burglary, which was captured on nearby surveillance video, showed four suspects arriving in a gray passenger car.
During the field investigation, SAPD Officers located the suspect vehicle parked at the Windmill Park Apartments, 1929 Raney Street, with stolen items from the Jomar Street burglary still inside. Two suspects linked to the burglary, 17-year-old Luis Duron and 25-year-old Kristopher Magallen, were located inside one of the apartments and taken into custody without incident. A third subject identified from the surveillance video, 24-year-old Sabrina Orona, was later located and arrested for the burglary but the investigation later revealed her role in the crime was forced and evidence was discovered that corroborated the theory.
During the extensive follow-up investigation, Detectives with the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division discovered that prior to the burglary; Orona had been kidnapped by Duron, Magallen, and a third suspect identified as 24-year-old Joshua Gonzalez from an apartment at the complex. The trio reportedly blindfolded Orona and bound her with duct tape before taking her to an unknown location where she was restrained to a chair, badly beaten, and threatened at gunpoint. Orona was eventually freed from the restraints after she agreed to assist the trio in committing the burglary. Following the burglary, Orona was once more held against her will, beaten, and eventually released on the condition she would take the blame for the burglary.
Gonzalez was eventually located and taken into custody at a residence in the 1600 block of Evelyn Avenue. A team of investigators executed a Search Warrant for the property and subsequently located two stolen firearms, stolen property from the Jomar burglary, and evidence from the kidnapping.
Duron and Magallen were both charged with Aggravated Kidnapping and Burglary of Habitation — their bonds were set at $575,000. Gonzalez was charged with Aggravated Kidnapping — his bond was set at $500,000. Department officials and the District Attorney’s Office are working towards Orona’s release. Additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.
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On Monday, October 21, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the Baymont Inn and Suites located at 1418 North Bryant Boulevard for the report of a theft.
Upon arrival, SAPD Officers learned that hotel guests had discovered their Polaris Ranger and utility trailer missing from the hotel’s parking lot.
A Patrolman who is familiar with a nearby residence in the 200 block of West 14th Street known for criminal activity followed his instincts and subsequently located the stolen items stashed in the backyard.
Officers established a perimeter around the residence until the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division could obtain a Search Warrant for the property. The Polaris and Trailer, valued at nearly $22K, were recovered and returned to their owners. Another suspected stolen trailer located at the property was seized for further investigation.
Investigators are searching for 42-year-old Javier Delarosa in connection to the investigation. Delarosa may be driving a white 2002 Ford F150.
If you know Delarosa’s whereabouts, send a tip through Facebook at facebook.com/SanAngeloPoliceDepartment. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
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On October 14, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the burglary of a habitation in the 2800 block of Jomar Street. The burglary, which was captured on nearby surveillance video, showed four suspects arriving in a gray passenger car.
During the field investigation, SAPD Officers located the suspect vehicle parked at the Windmill Park Apartments, 1929 Raney Street, with stolen items from the Jomar Street burglary still inside. Two suspects linked to the burglary, 17-year-old Luis Duron and 25-year-old Kristopher Magallen, were located inside one of the apartments and taken into custody without incident. A third subject identified from the surveillance video, 24-year-old Sabrina Orona, was later located and arrested for the burglary but the investigation later revealed her role in the crime was forced and evidence was discovered that corroborated the theory.
During the extensive follow-up investigation, Detectives with the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division discovered that prior to the burglary; Orona had been kidnapped by Duron, Magallen, and a third suspect identified as 24-year-old Joshua Gonzalez from an apartment at the complex. The trio reportedly blindfolded Orona and bound her with duct tape before taking her to an unknown location where she was restrained to a chair, badly beaten, and threatened at gunpoint. Orona was eventually freed from the restraints after she agreed to assist the trio in committing the burglary. Following the burglary, Orona was once more held against her will, beaten, and eventually released on the condition she would take the blame for the burglary.
Gonzalez was eventually located and taken into custody at a residence in the 1600 block of Evelyn Avenue. A team of investigators executed a Search Warrant for the property and subsequently located two stolen firearms, stolen property from the Jomar burglary, and evidence from the kidnapping.
Duron and Magallen were both charged with Aggravated Kidnapping and Burglary of Habitation — their bonds were set at $575,000. Gonzalez was charged with Aggravated Kidnapping — his bond was set at $500,000.
Department officials and the District Attorney’s Office are working towards Orona’s release. Additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.
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On Friday, October 11, 2019 members of the San Angelo Police Department bid farewell to Thor, a beloved Police Service Dog who medically retired after serving six years with the Department’s K9 Unit.
Thor, a Belgian Malinois, joined the Department in 2013. Thor’s dogged approach to police work led to nearly four hundred thirty-eight (438) arrests that led to the discovery and seizure of roughly one thousand eight hundred (1,800) grams of narcotics.
Thor will be enjoying his retirement in the company of the Department’s K9 Unit Supervisor and former handler, Sergeant Brian Gesch. And although Thor will no longer be tracking criminals and drugs, he will continue to seek out belly rubs, ear scratches, and playtime with his favorite Kong.
The startup cost to replace Thor with a new Police service dog — which includes importing the dog, training, equipment, and food — costs approximately $16,000. The Department will soon be working towards fundraising efforts to cover these costs. If you would like to help, please send a check or money order to:
San Angelo Police Department c/o K9 Unit Box 5020 San Angelo Texas 76902
(All donations will be earmarked for the new PSD, related equipment and K9 training.)
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On Tuesday, October 15, 2019, the San Angelo Police Department’s Traffic Section conducted LIDAR Traffic Enforcement in eleven (11) school zones. A total of twenty-four (24) citations and eight (8) warnings were issued.
Following the school zone enforcement, LIDAR was conducted in the 1700 block of East Houston Harte. A total of fifty-nine (59) citations and fifteen (15) warnings were issued.
Citation Breakdown:
School Zones
Other/Misc. Violations: 5
No Insurance: 4
Speeding: 15
Warnings: 8
Houston Harte
Speeding: 50 (Highest speed: 93 mph.)
Other/Misc. Violations: 6
No Driver’s License: 1
No Insurance: 2
Warnings: 15
The life of a child is priceless and not worth the risk by speeding through a school zone. Children are more vulnerable than adults to being hit by a car — they tend to be less cautious than adults, are less visible due to their size, and they are less likely to survive a hit by a vehicle.
When approaching a school zone, slow down. The few seconds you may save speeding through a school zone is not worth the fine, but more importantly, it’s not worth the life of a child.
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A 25-year-old San Angelo man was arrested Saturday night on various charges stemming from a ‘Shots Fired’ investigation in North San Angelo.
Just before 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the area of West 22nd and North Farr after several callers reported shots fired from a dark-colored SUV. Responding officers located several spent shell casings in the street. The suspect vehicle was no longer on scene and no one was injured.
Soon after, San Angelo Public Safety Communications received a call for an armed man that was waving a gun in the air at MLK Pak, 2121 Martin Luther King Blvd. Upon arrival, a few park-goers alerted the officers to the armed man's location.
When officers attempted to confront the suspect, the suspect ducked behind a nearby vehicle and appeared to discard something. The suspect, later identified as Rhyheme Talton, was detained and frisked for safety. Talton had a Glock ammunition magazine in his pocket and officers located an unattended Glock firearm on the sidewalk during an immediate search of the area. Officers also located a black SUV that is associated with Talton at the park. The SUV was running and unoccupied.
Talton, who was exhibiting signs of intoxication, was placed under arrest for public intoxication, Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon, and Possession of Controlled Substance Penalty Group 3 after officers located a bag of Xanax in his sock.
Talton was transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident. Bond was set at $11,442.00.
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Officers with the San Angelo Police Department’s Anti-Crime Unit have been searching for two suspects in connection to several vehicle and motorcycle thefts in San Angelo and surrounding counties.
The suspects, 23-year-old Wesley Mitcham and 35-year-old Mandy Pluff, were wanted for various warrants including Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle, Failure to Appear and Bail Jumping.
Information was developed that the pair was at a relative’s residence in Winters Texas. With assistance from Winters Police and DPS officials, the pair was located at the residence and taken into custody without incident on October 3, 2019. A third wanted suspect, 45-year-old Bryan Mitcham, was also apprehended on a warrant of arrest for Parole Violation. The three suspects were booked into the Runnel’s County Jail.
As a result of yesterday’s apprehensions, a stolen motorcycle out of Coke County and another from San Angelo were recovered.
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October 4, 2019 — The 37-year-old man wanted in connection to the September 12, 2019 double stabbing at the Concho Pearl Ice House has been arrested.
This morning, San Angelo Police and Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office officials developed information about Robert Espinosa Garcia Jr.’s whereabouts. He was located around 10:30 a.m. at a residence in the 100 block of North Emerick Street and taken into custody without incident.
Garcia had a warrant of arrest for Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon as well as a Parole Violation Warrant.
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Previous Release:
Suspect Named in Concho Pearl Ice House Double Stabbing
September 12, 2019— The San Angelo Police Department is seeking the whereabouts of 37-year-old Robert Espinosa Garcia Jr., AKA “Blunt”, in connection to an early morning double stabbing that left two San Angelo men seriously injured.
Just after 12:00 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to the Concho Pearl Ice House located at 1605 S. Chadbourne Street for the report of a fight in progress with a knife involved.
Upon arrival, officers located two male victims, ages 18 and 37, who were suffering from apparent stab wounds. Both men were transported to a nearby hospital where they underwent emergency surgery for serious injuries. They are reportedly in serious and critical condition respectively.
Detectives with the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division responded and learned the two victims, Concho Pearl Ice House employees, were stabbed just outside the bar as they attempted to break up a fight between Garcia and several other males. Garcia reportedly fled the scene in a vehicle.
Garcia has an active warrant for Second Degree Felony Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon. If you have information about Garcia’s whereabouts, please contact the San Angelo Police department at (325) 657-4315. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
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On September 16, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to the 1800 block of Coleman Street for the report of shots fired. Investigating Officers located a spent shell casing and nearby home surveillance footage revealed a male driver in a white passenger car discharged a handgun from his vehicle. No one was injured during the incident.
Subsequent to a lengthy follow-up investigation, Detectives with the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division identified a 16-year-old male Juvenile as the suspect. On October 1, 2019, CID Detectives located the teen at a residence in Santa Rita and he was taken into custody without incident.
During a warrant search of the teen’s room, detectives located and seized two handguns, a quantity of suspected Methamphetamine, and a large amount of suspected stolen property linked to several recent burglaries in Santa Rita, Southland, and College Hills.
The teen was initially charged with Deadly Conduct and Possession of Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 and booked into the Tom Green County Juvenile Justice Center. Additional charges are pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.
The Department believes this recent arrest will resolve several ongoing investigations and Department Officials are asking for patience during efforts to return the stolen property to the victims.
More information will be released as it becomes available.
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A 30-year-old San Angelo man has been arrested in connection to last night’s stabbing outside the Stripes convenience store located at 802 East 19th Street.
Just after 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 2, 2019, San Angelo Police were dispatched to Stripes store #225 for the report of a stabbing.
Arriving officers located a Hispanic male suffering from an apparent stab wound. Officers deployed a Department issued C-A-T Tourniquet to control the victim’s bleeding until San Angelo Fire Department Medics arrived.
The victim, a 33–year-old San Angelo resident, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. The assault, which took place just outside the store’s front doors, was captured on surveillance video. The suspect, identified as Manuel Penner, fled the store’s parking lot prior to police arrival.
Penner was later located at a residence in the 4400 block of Travis Street and taken into custody without incident. The investigation revealed Penner and the victim are acquaintances with longstanding unresolved issues and that last night’s incident at Stripes resulted from a chance encounter.
Penner was booked into the Tom Green County Jail charged with Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon. Bond was set at $35K.
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September 30, 2019 — Detectives with the San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division are searching for two male suspects who reportedly shot towards a pedestrian from their moving vehicle just before 8:30 a.m. in the 1500 block of North Bryant Boulevard.
A preliminary investigation revealed a white four-door passenger car was traveling westbound on West 15th, crossing North Bryant Boulevard, when the vehicle’s passenger started shooting in the direction of an 18-year-old man that was walking in the grassy median. The man was not injured; however, one bullet made contact with a 2006 Ford F150 that was traveling northbound on North Bryant Blvd. The truck’s operator, a 45-year-old San Angelo resident, was not injured.
Investigators believe the shooting incident was not random and that the 18-year-old pedestrian was the intended target.
If you have information about the suspects’ identities and whereabouts, please call the Criminal Investigations Division at (325) 657-4264 or send a direct message to the Department’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SanAngeloPoliceDepartment. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
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A 36-year-old San Angelo man was airlifted to a Lubbock area hospital for injuries he sustained during an early morning fiery-crash outside Central Fire Station.
Around 1:00 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to West 1st Street and North Koenigheim for the report of a single-vehicle accident involving a motorcycle. Arriving officers located Fire Department personnel assisting the driver, Luis Chavez Padilla, who was suffering from burns and incapacitating injuries. Chavez Padilla was transported to Shannon Medical Center by ambulance for initial treatment and was later airlifted to a Lubbock area hospital.
A preliminary crash investigation revealed Chavez Padilla was traveling north on Koenigheim at a high rate of speed when his motorcycle left the east side of the roadway and collided with a light pole that is located just outside the Central Fire Station. The collision caused the motorcycle to burst into flames. Alcohol was likely a contributing factor to the crash.
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September 25, 2019— A 15-year-old Lake View High School student was transported to Shannon Medical Center with injuries after she was struck by two vehicles during the morning drop-off at Lake View High School.
The crash occurred just before 8:00 a.m. this morning as the girl exited a 2009 Chevrolet HHR that was properly stopped adjacent to the curb. As the female student crossed in front of the vehicle, a 2004 Honda CRV that was approaching the HHR from behind, collided with the HHR’s back left side. The force of the collision pushed the HHR into the student, knocking the student to the ground in the roadway. The CRV continued traveling and ran over the girl’s lower extremities. The student was treated for minor injuries and has since been released.
The driver of the Chevy HHR, a 62-year-old female, was cited for Expired Registration. The driver of the CRV, a 20-year-old female, was cited for No Driver’s License and Failure to Control Speed.
A preliminary crash investigation revealed excessive speed was not a factor in this morning’s crash; however, one driver cited her vision was limited due to the position of the sun.
Department officials want to remind citizens to use extra caution in school zones and to be mindful of environmental conditions that could cause decreased visibility.
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A 38-year-old San Angelo woman who abandoned her two injured passengers after she drove into the Concho Valley Transit building late Saturday night has turned herself in.
Yesterday afternoon, Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Traffic Section obtained a warrant of arrest for Rebecca Moreno for the charge of Accident involving Injury. The warrant’s bond, issued by Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 Susan Werner, was set at $10K. Moreno turned herself in this morning.
Moreno is accused of intentionally and knowingly fleeing the scene of the crash without leaving her personal identifying information, and without rendering reasonable assistance to her two passengers, a 34-year-old male and 33-year-old female who were in need of medical treatment.
A preliminary crash investigation revealed Moreno was driving a 2013 Dodge Charger northbound on Chadbourne Street at a high rate of speed when her vehicle left the roadway and struck the building’s south entrance. A surveillance video shows Moreno exited the building through a door located on the north side of the building.
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Investigators with the San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division are searching for a man who robbed a Stripes convenience store at knifepoint Saturday night.
Police responded to the Stripes at 1733 Pulliam Street just before midnight. The suspect was described as a dark-complected Hispanic Male, approximately 5’09”, 220 lbs., wearing a blue hospital mask, a gray zip-up hoodie with a pink undershirt, and dark pants. The suspect reportedly fled the store on foot with an undisclosed amount of money. No one was injured.
If you have information on the suspect’s identity or whereabouts, please contact the San Angelo Police Department at (325) 657-4264. To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247 or by text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts.
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This morning, the San Angelo Police Department’s Traffic Section conducted LIDAR Traffic Enforcement in ten school zones. A total of thirty (30) citations and Five (5) warnings were issued.
Following the school zone enforcement, LIDAR was conducted in the eastbound lanes of the 2300 block of the West Houston Harte Expressway. A total of fifty-eight (58) citations and nine (9) warnings were issued.
Citation Breakdown:
School Zones
Driving While License Invalid: 1
Cell Phone in School Zone: 1
Other/Misc. Violations: 3
No Driver’s License: 2
No Insurance: 4
Speeding: 19
Warnings: 5
Houston Harte
Driving While License Invalid: 1
Other/Misc. Violations: 5
No Insurance: 5
Speeding: 47 (Highest speed: 88 mph.)
Warnings: 9
The life of a child is priceless and not worth the risk by speeding through a school zone. Children are more vulnerable than adults to being hit by a car — they tend to be less cautious than adults, are less visible due to their size, and they are less likely to survive a hit by a vehicle.
When approaching a school zone, slow down. The few seconds you may save speeding through a school zone is not worth the fine, but more importantly, it’s not worth the life of a child.
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On Tuesday, October 1st, neighborhoods throughout San Angelo are being invited to join forces with thousands of communities across the nation for the "36th Annual National Night Out" crime and drug prevention event. National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and co-sponsored locally by the San Angelo Police Department, will involve over 16,500 communities from all 50 states, U.S. Territories, Canadian cities, and military bases around the world. In all over 38.5 million people are expected to participate in "America's Night Out Against Crime".
National Night Out is designed to; (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
On October 1st, residents in neighborhoods throughout San Angelo and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors, police, and other first responders.
This year there will be seven National Night Out locations within the city limits of San Angelo and one location in Wall, Texas taking part in National Night Out festivities. The locations and times for these events are listed below:
Wall Brethren Church - 7921 Loop 570, Wall, TX - 4:30 to 7:30 PM
Angelo Skate & Fun Center - 34 Buick St. - 5:00 to 7:00 PM
Vistas at Red Creek Apartments - 5751 Green Hill Rd. - 5:00 to 7:00 PM
Trinity Lutheran Church - 3516 Lutheran Way - 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Bent Tree Apartments - 1625 Sunset Dr. - 5:00 to 7:00 PM
Goodfellow Family Housing - 2025 Longhorn Dr. - 5:00 to 7:30 PM
Solid Rock Church - 1305 Koberlin St. - 6:00 to 8:00 PM
Kirby Park Villas - 609 W. 29th St. - 6:00 to 8:00 PM
Together we can make San Angelo a safer community for everyone.
FMI or interview requests contact Sgt. Tim Coffman at (325) 481-2709.
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