April 6, 2025 – San Diego Police Department officials report that just before 10:00 P.M. on March 9, a license plate reader flagged a truck that had been reported to be stolen out of Escondido.

Officer Bonilla-Lima from SDPD’s Mid-City Division located the vehicle driving through the North Park area and began coordinating additional resources while monitoring it from a distance. That’s when the driver suddenly sped off—ignoring stop signs and weaving through residential streets.

After a brief pursuit, the driver abandoned the truck and fled on foot, jumping fences and damaging property along the way.

A perimeter was quickly set up with help from K-9 teams and ASTREA—the San Diego County Sheriff’s helicopter. The suspect was found hiding under a parked car just a few blocks away. Big thanks to our partners at the Sheriff’s Department for their support.

The individual gave officers false information multiple times, but a mobile fingerprint scanner confirmed his true identity. During the arrest, a small quantity of suspected illegal substances was also recovered.

He was booked on multiple charges, including possession of a stolen vehicle, narcotics-related offenses, and an outstanding warrant.

Technology, teamwork, and strong partnerships made the difference.

Source: San Diego Police Department