Montgomery County Auto Theft Task Force Nabs Suspect with $185K in Stolen Equipment

On January 23, 2024, the Montgomery County Auto Theft Task Force received a tip from a vigilant private citizen expressing concerns about the legitimacy of a Mini-Excavator purchase. Following an investigation, the task force confirmed the excavator had been reported stolen from Pearland, Texas, and identified a suspect.

Acting swiftly, Task Force Investigators proceeded to the 10000 block of North Crystal Springs Circle, Conroe, Texas, on January 24, 2024, to make contact with the suspect, Jose Carrizalez, aged 53. Upon arrival, investigators discovered additional stolen equipment at the residence, including a Kubota Mini-Excavator reported stolen from Dayton, Texas, and a Kubota Skid Steer Loader reported stolen from Hempstead, Texas. The combined estimated value of the recovered equipment is $185,000.

Jose Carrizalez was subsequently arrested and transported to the Montgomery County Jail. He now faces charges of Felony Aggregate Theft.

The Montgomery County Auto Theft Task Force, a multi-agency unit, receives partial funding and training from The Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority. In response to this successful operation, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information about stolen vehicles or equipment to contact the Auto Theft Task Force at 936-760-5800 (option 3) or Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP (7867).