CCSO officials report those operating stolen vehicles seem to be emboldened and suspects in stolen vehicles are eluding deputies at an alarming rate

On Oct. 19, deputies were dispatched to the area of the 3500 block of NE 54^th Street in Vancouver for reports of a parked vehicle without affixed license plates. 

Deputies had prior familiarity with this location as numerous stolen vehicles are attributed to persons that associate with the location.  On several occasions deputies have located and observed stolen vehicles in this area and have attempted traffic stops to recover the stolen vehicle and effect the arrest.  On the previous occasions, the driver(s) have failed to stop and fled the area.  In accordance with Washington law (House Bill 1054), law enforcement cannot conduct a vehicle pursuit under most circumstances including these. 

When deputies arrived on Oct. 19, they found the vehicle to be reported stolen and occupied by 42-year-old Ryan Smith. When deputies spotted a second suspect, he resisted arrest and ran from the area.  A deputy gave chase on foot and successfully apprehended the second suspect, who was later identified as 22-year-old Jacob Fitzgerald.  Fitzgerald was found to have five warrants for his arrest from Washington County and Multnomah County. 

In total, deputies located two stolen vehicles at the scene.

During the search of one of the stolen vehicles, deputies located two handguns.  One handgun was reported stolen from California and a second handgun had an obliterated serial number with a 30-round extended magazine. 

Smith was arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail for possession of a stolen vehicle, unlawful firearm possession, and possession of a stolen firearm. 

Along with his arrest warrants, Fitzgerald was arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail for possession of a stolen vehicle and resisting arrest.   

Both stolen vehicles were returned to the owners. 

Stolen vehicles are utilized by criminals for anonymity, the storage and transportation of illegal contraband, and overall, in furtherance of additional criminal activities. Deputies have seen an increase in crimes facilitated by stolen vehicles.     

In addition to creating many victims within our communities by using the stolen vehicles for the furtherance of additional crimes, the original victims of the stolen vehicle are often significantly impacted by unexpected financial burdens and other hardships suffered by the loss of their vehicle. 

Those operating stolen vehicles seem to be emboldened.  Suspects in stolen vehicles are eluding deputies at an alarming rate, making arresting and holding them accountable challenging. 

Because the stolen vehicles in this investigation were located stationary, the outcome was favorable for the crime victims and public safety.  

Information provided by Clark County Sheriff’s Office.