Theft suspect arrested

Provided.

On July 8, Tehachapi Police Officers were dispatched to a local business regarding an unknown suspect who had stolen fuel from several work trucks, resulting in several thousands of dollars in damage to fuel tanks.

Officers who investigated the crime determined the suspect utilized a drill, a large tote and fuel cans to remove gasoline from the victims' trucks.

Through diligent police work, officers were able to locate and obtain video surveillance footage of the suspect and were able to identify him as 28-year-old Ruben Cortez Jr., of Tehachapi.

On July 9, officers located and arrested Cortez for the fuel theft and felony vandalism. Officers authored a search warrant for Cortez' vehicle and located the items he used to steal the fuel, such as the drill with a step bit, tote and fuel cans.

Officers later booked Cortez into the Kern County Jail for Felony vandalism and petty theft. Officers are currently looking at other cases in which Cortez may be the suspect.

If you have any additional information, please contact the Tehachapi Police Department at (661) 822-2222.