Printer-friendly version
February 1, 2014 (Spring Valley) – Man caught in act of stealing air conditioning components, Sheriff reports. On January 30, James David Solak, 22 and his girlfriend, Jace Tanay Hernandez, 29, were arrested in conjunction with a series of thefts of recyclable metals.
“At this time, we believe Solak is responsible for more than 15 of these thefts, ranging from schools to commercial buildings, with a total damage estimate in excess of $200,000,” said Sergeant Greg Hampton.
While identifying these suspects can be difficult, catching them in the act is rare.
During a two month investigation using all available resources, including the San Diego Metal Theft Taskforce, the District Attorney's Office, Lemon Grove patrol deputies, detectives and crime and intelligence analysts, Detective Alan Kaupe of the Lemon Grove Sheriff's Station identified Solak as the suspect in a series of thefts.
On January 30th, Detective Alan Kaupe was conducting follow-up on this investigation when he observed Solak's vehicle parked next to a business that had been a previous target. In those incidents numerous air conditioning units were damaged. Detective Kaupe observed Solak on the roof of the business in broad daylight dismantling two air conditioning units and removing major components.
Detective Kaupe requested assistance from Lemon Grove patrol deputies, detectives and ASTREA. A perimeter was set and when Solak came down from the roof with the stolen components, deputies attempted to take him into custody. Solak fled on foot, but was quickly apprehended. Solak fought with deputies and force including the use of a Taser was necessary to gain compliance. Solak was transported to the hospital for removal of Taser barbs.
This investigation is on-going. Anyone with information on these cases is encouraged to contact the Lemon Grove Sheriff's Station at (619) 337-2000.
Recent comments