According to a news release provided by the Hollister Police Department, on Oct. 8, at about 12:02 AM, the HPD responded to a report of a vehicle theft that had just occurred from the Quick Stop Gas Station parking lot at 10 San Felipe Road. The stolen vehicle was described as a white 1996 Nissan Sentra sedan which was left unlocked with the engine running prior to the theft.
The report stated that minutes later, Sergeant Celano located Jose Eduardo Garcia,46, and the stolen vehicle in the back of the Los Cuates Market parking lot at 220 San Felipe Road. While conducting the investigation, officers discovered Garcia was a parolee on early release from prison and suspected he had been operating the stolen vehicle while intoxicated. A DUI investigation was conducted and Garcia was also arrested for driving while under the influence. He was later transported to the San Benito County Jail and the stolen vehicle was recovered and returned to the owner, the news release stated.
HPD reminded the public the importance of turning off and securing unattended vehicles. The police department stated that doing so can help to prevent vehicle thefts and help contribute to the overall safety of the community.
The News Release suggested that anyone with information contact Officer Sifuentes at the Hollister Police Department at (831) 636-4331. Those wishing to remain anonymous, call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME. The Hollister Police Department states that calls to WeTip can lead to rewards of up to $1,000.
