By Gina Yarbrough
El Cajon, CA–El Cajon police arrested two individuals suspected of driving a stolen vehicle on Wednesday in El Cajon, authorities said.
The vehicle, a Mazda 3, was flagged by automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras as it entered the city around 6:30 p.m. The car had been reported stolen in San Diego a week prior.
Authorities tracked the stolen Mazda near Emerald Avenue and Laguna Avenue. Upon locating the vehicle, officers engaged in a brief foot chase before apprehending the suspects. The driver, identified as 31-year-old Oswald Deleon, was taken into custody. Deleon has a substantial arrest history over the past decade, including charges related to domestic violence and theft, according to a statement from the El Cajon Police Department.
“The El Cajon Police Department will continue to use the comprehensive network of ALPR cameras to hold criminals accountable. As they enter El Cajon, they will be arrested. Criminal acts will not be tolerated and will have consequences for those who commit them,” stated Chief Mike Moulton.
The police department urges anyone with additional information about the incident to contact them at (619) 579-3311. Individuals who prefer to remain anonymous can provide tips through the Crime Stoppers tip line at (888) 580-8477.