In a successful police operation, multiple arrests were made, stolen vehicles were recovered, and there was a significant decrease in reported auto thefts, according to authorities. The operation was a joint effort between the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) and the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) in their respective jurisdictions.

The operation began when VPD officers alerted PPB that a recently stolen red 2020 Mitsubishi was heading southbound on I-205, crossing the Glenn Jackson Bridge into Portland. PPB officers located the stolen vehicle and attempted to stop it near Northeast 122nd Avenue and Northeast Shaver Street. However, the driver did not comply, prompting a pursuit.

During the chase, the suspect's vehicle sideswiped another occupied vehicle while traveling eastbound on Northeast Marine Drive. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in the incident. Eventually, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) deputies were able to spike the suspect's tires, bringing the car to a halt at Northeast 138th Avenue and Northeast Whitaker Way. The driver immediately surrendered and was taken into custody.

The driver, identified as 23-year-old Angel Rodriguez of Vancouver, was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) on several charges, including Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Attempt to Elude by Vehicle, Reckless Driving, and Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants. Additionally, Rodriguez faces 10 counts of Reckless Endangering Another Person and more, as per authorities.

In total, the PPB's preliminary statistics for the operation reveal that 11 stolen vehicles were recovered and 10 arrests were made. Furthermore, 10 active warrants were issued, and three drivers attempted to evade police, resulting in pursuits. Five vehicles were towed, and one firearm was recovered during the operation.

The success of the operation is further underscored by the significant reduction in reported auto thefts. PPB has experienced a 25% decrease in stolen vehicle reports compared to the previous year. From January through November of 2023, there were 7,454 stolen vehicles reported, compared to 10,004 for the same period in 2022. This reduction amounts to 2,550 fewer stolen vehicles, indicating a positive impact on curbing auto theft in the area.

The collaboration between PPB and VPD demonstrates the effectiveness of joint efforts in combating crime and ensuring public safety. Authorities credit the diligence and coordination of law enforcement agencies for the operation's success in apprehending suspects and recovering stolen vehicles.