Garcia family with members of the Imperial Beach Sheriff’s and Fire Departments. Photo: Sheriff’s Dept.
IMPERIAL BEACH–A Grinch stole Christmas for a family in Imperial Beach on Christmas Eve, but deputies from the Imperial Beach Sheriff’s Substation came to the rescue.
Francisco Garcia, his wife and their one year-old son just moved to Imperial Beach from Texas. Garcia is in the U.S. Army. A thief stole the family’s pickup truck and trailer that were filled with all of their belongings along Florida Street. Among the items stolen were Christmas gifts for the family’s son.
The theft was reported just before 9 a.m. When deputies responded to the scene of the crime, they knew they had to do something to help out the Garcias. Deputies joined forces with Sheriff’s detectives and professional staff, as well as the Imperial Beach Fire Department and Imperial Beach Fire Association. They quickly gathered up donations for the family, including cash, checks and gift cards from local stores.
The Garcias couldn’t believe their eyes when they were visited by the first responders with all of the donations.
The stolen pickup truck is a Green 2000 Ford F250 with Texas Plate Number DKT9824. The attached trailer has a Texas License Plate Number 0534028.
If you see the pickup truck or trailer or have any information about this case, call the Sheriff’s Department at (858) 565-5200. You can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest.
