APPLE VALLEY — A report of suspicious activity led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle and the arrest of a suspect Sunday, authorities said.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Apple Valley Station deputies originally responded to the area of Serrano and Carlistle roads in Apple Valley at approximately 9:30 a.m. Sunday.
According to authorities, the residents, who live in an apartment complex in the area, reported a suspicious subject, who was not a resident, had parked a white Honda Accord in the parking lot and left on foot toward nearby residences.
They described the subject as a Hispanic male 20-30 years old, shaved head, and a tattoo of a ‘W’ on his neck,” sheriff’s officials said in a statement. “He was later identified as Benny Junior Martinez. A record check of the license plate on the Honda revealed the vehicle was stolen earlier that morning in Hesperia.”
Deputies conducted an area check but were unable to locate the 28-year-old Martinez.
Approximately 90 minutes after the original call, Martinez was seen in the area of Serrano and Otoe roads. Authorities said he had changed his clothing and was walking away from the area when the same reporting party recognized him and alerted deputies.
Working with a California Highway Patrol helicopter, Martinez was spotted in a side yard of a residence a few blocks away and when deputies eventually located him hiding in an open garage underneath boxes and household items.
Martinez was found to be on active mandatory supervision for vehicle theft, according to authorities, and was also had an outstanding warrant for possession of another stolen vehicle. He is currently being held without bail at the High Desert Detention Center and his next court day is Nov. 13.
Authorities commended the willingness of the residents to report suspicious activity as a good example of “See Something, Say Something.” Witnesses and victims are encouraged to report suspicious activity and crimes to Sheriff’s Dispatch at 760-951-5001 and emergencies to 911.