RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENTSheriff Chad Bianco |
| Press Release: | Stolen Vehicle Arrest
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| Station Area: | Perris |
| Written Date: | January 24, 2020 | Time: | 9:30 AM |
| Incident Date: | January 7, 2020 | Time: | 11:34 AM |
| Incident Location: | 18000 Block of Hibiscus Ave, Mead Valley |
| Reporting Officer: | Sergeant Aaron Avila |
| File Number(s): | PC200070015 |
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| Michael Helfritz |
On January 7, 2020, Dispatch received a call from a citizen reference a possible stolen Can-Am off-road vehicle at a residence in the 18000 block of Hibiscus Avenue. When deputies arrived, the suspect rammed the victim’s vehicle with the Can-Am and fled. Deputies attempted an enforcement stop for the stolen Can-Am and the vehicle failed to yield. A short pursuit ensued and the suspect eluded capture.
A deputy assigned to the Perris Station Special Enforcement Team assumed the investigation. With public assistance, the suspect was identified as Michael Helfritz, a 24-year-old resident from Gavilan Hills. During the investigation, Helfritz was identified as a suspect in another stolen vehicle investigation.
On January 22, with the assistance of members from the Riverside Auto-Theft Interdiction Detail (RAID), Helfritz was located near the court house in downtown Riverside. Helfritz was arrested and booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center for assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a stolen vehicle, and evading law enforcement.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department encourages anyone with additional information regarding this investigation to contact Deputy Dave Thomas at the Perris Station by calling 951-210-1128.
Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is seeking applicants for Deputy Sheriff, Deputy Sheriff Trainee, Correctional Deputy, Sheriff’s 911 Communications Officer, and other employment opportunities such as clerical and support positions. If you are interested in a career with us, please apply at www.joinrsd.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD |