Effort results in multiple arrests, with the recovery of firearms and fentanyl

VANCOUVER – On Thursday (Dec. 28), the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) conducted its second Southwest Washington joint Stolen Vehicle Operation (SVO) with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Washington State Patrol Aviation Unit, and the Clark County Prosecutor’s Office. This operation ran concurrently with multiple law enforcement agencies in the Portland metro area who ran their own SVO mission.

The results of last night’s SW Washington SVO included the recovery of 1 Stolen vehicle with 1 subject arrested for possessing a stolen vehicle. Four additional arrests occurred on subjects wanted for various outstanding felony crimes and warrants. Officers also seized one vehicle, pending search warrant authorization, which is being investigated by the VPD Property Crimes Unit.

In one incident of the night, a non-plated stolen vehicle out of Vancouver was spotted and confirmed via phone with the registered owner due to distinguishing features. As the driver was being contacted by VPD and CCSO with emergency lights activated, the suspect exited the stolen vehicle and fled on foot. After a brief foot pursuit and a taser deployment, the suspect was taken into custody for Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. A shaved key was found in the ignition and other known auto prowl tools.

In addition to the traffic stops, investigators have been conducting an ongoing investigation involving a subject distributing fentanyl, unlawfully possessing firearms, and in possession of a stolen vehicle. The suspect, a 35-year-old Vancouver resident, was contacted in downtown Vancouver and was found to unlawfully be in possession of a handgun and fentanyl. Members of the SVO served a search warrant at the suspects motel room that resulted in the recovery of approx. 1500 fentanyl pills, ½ oz. of heroin, methamphetamine and an additional firearm. The male was taken into custody and booked into Clark County Jail, charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver (Fentanyl) and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

The Vancouver Police Department will continue to conduct future SVO’s in an effort to reduce vehicle thefts and the crimes associated with stolen vehicles.

Information provided by the Vancouver Police Department.