Suspected Cat Burglar Nabbed After Escala Community Late Night Theft

RANCHO MIRAGE, CA — A suspected cat burglar was captured this week in Rancho Mirage, one day after a "hot prowl burglary" inside the Escala gated community, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department said.

Michael Zibell, a 47-year-old resident of Thousand Palms, was identified as the prime suspect and arrested on May 1, shortly before 7:15 p.m. on Bob Hope Drive. He was booked into the Jon Benoit Detention Center in Indio, where he was held in lieu of $500,000 bail. His next court appearance was scheduled for May 14 at the Larson Justice Center in Indio, where he will face charges of first-degree burglary and possession of stolen property.

On April 30, shortly before 8:30 a.m., residents awoke to find both their car and garage had been burglarized while they slept, Sgt. Chris Gelinas said. Deputies found the suspect had initially burglarized items inside the victim's vehicle and gained access to their garage using the garage door opener.

"The suspect stole items from the victim's vehicle and inside the garage," Gelinas said. Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team (SET) deputies obtained evidence that the suspect committed the burglary.

This is an ongoing investigation, and no additional details are available. However, the sheriff's department is seeking further information from the community.

"The Riverside County Sheriff's Office wants to remind community members it is always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect our belongings and homes," Gelinas said. "Removing all valuables from vehicles and securing both vehicles and residences can help prevent theft and keep our communities safer."

Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to call Deputy Jacob Paull with the Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team at the Palm Desert Sheriff's Station by calling (760) 393-3220