EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. (October 15, 2023) – Suspect Apprehended in Stolen Trailer Cases: An El Dorado and Amador County Victory
In a commendable display of law enforcement diligence, the Amador County Sheriff‘s Office achieved a significant breakthrough on Friday, October 15, 2023. Their vigilant deputy, while on duty, spotted a vehicle that matched the description of a suspect vehicle linked to a series of trailer thefts.
The tale begins in Martell on September 30, 2023, when a utility trailer vanished under suspicious circumstances. Thanks to the sharp eye of the alert deputy, a silver lining appeared on the horizon. Upon pulling over the suspect vehicle, driven by Joseph Galea, a 65-year-old resident of Drytown, a startling confession was made.
Galea admitted to the theft of the utility trailer from Martell and confessed to transporting it to a residence in Elk Grove. However, this wasn’t the only revelation that would unravel this complex tale.
As the deputy delved deeper into the investigation, a shocking discovery emerged. Among the evidence seized from the suspect’s vehicle was a license plate, a piece of the puzzle that connected to another heist, this one involving a fifth wheel trailer. This particular trailer had been reported stolen from El Dorado County in August 2022, leaving its rightful owner at a loss.
Galea’s confession expanded to include his involvement in the theft of the fifth wheel trailer from El Dorado County. He had taken the stolen trailer to his residence in Drytown, where it had remained hidden until that fateful encounter with law enforcement.
The diligent work of the Amador County Sheriff’s Office led to the recovery of both the utility trailer and the fifth wheel trailer. These trailers, once stolen and lost to their rightful owners, have now been returned, completing a chapter of justice in this intricate story.
Joseph Galea was apprehended, his alleged involvement in the thefts leading to his arrest on charges of grand theft and possession of stolen property. This incident serves as a testament to the dedication and persistence of law enforcement officers who, day in and day out, work diligently to ensure justice is served and that stolen property is returned to its rightful owners.
“Thank you for the great job deputies, I was able to get my trailer back!” – Armando Navarro.
It is a reminder that law enforcement remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve, ensuring that criminals are held accountable for their actions, and stolen property finds its way back to the hands of those who rightfully own it.
