Suspect arrested in stolen car parked near Hemet Police Station

August 3, 2016 Trevor Montgomery

Numerous officers and deputies responded to the reported stolen vehicle recovery. Will Whelan photo

HEMET – A man wanted for stealing a car from a Walgreens in San Jacinto was located and arrested, while parked next to the Hemet Library, directly across from the Hemet Police Station Aug. 1.

An officer on routine patrol located the stolen vehicle at about 4:30 pm. It was occupied by one person, who was later identified as 24-year-old Christopher Gabriel Rincon.

The officer called for additional assistance from nearby officers and deputies from the Hemet/Valle Vista and San Jacinto Police Stations.

Numerous officers from multiple agencies and jurisdictions responded and assisted with Rincon’s arrest. While searching the stolen vehicle, officials found a large bag containing more than 28.5 grams of marijuana.

A large bag containing more than 28.5 grams of marijuana was located inside the stolen vehicle. John Strangis photo

After Rincon was arrested, the stolen car was recovered and later returned to its’ rightful owner.

Because the vehicle was stolen from the city of san Jacinto, officials from San Jacinto PD booked Rincon into the Larry D. Smith Correctional facility for a variety of charges, including suspicion of vehicle theft, possession of more than 28.5 grams of marijuana, possessing or receiving known stolen property, and violation of the terms of his parole, all felonies. Rincon was also booked on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance, a misdemeanor.

He is being held without bail and was scheduled to be seen at an unspecified court Aug. 3.

Anyone with information about Rincon or this investigation is encouraged to contact the San Jacinto Police department at (951) 654-2702. Callers can refer to incident file number I162140068 and can remain anonymous. Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.