35 Cars Stolen In Santa Cruz Recovered In 30 Days: Police

SANTA CRUZ, CA — A Santa Cruz transient was arrested on suspicion of auto theft last week, police officials said. Police arrested Phillip Penn, 42, who was allegedly spotted driving a white Toyota 4Runner about an hour after the SUV was reported stolen from the 1100 block of Pacific Avenue on May 16.

“The follow-up investigation located video surveillance footage confirming Phillip Penn as the subject who stole the vehicle,” police said via social media. “Evidence indicated that the steering column was damaged to employ a hot-wire technique to start the engine. In short order, SCPD officers returned the stolen truck to the grateful owner.”

Police say auto theft appears to be on the rise. Officers have recovered 35 stolen cars in the last 30 days.

“As a community, we can work together to prevent such thefts from occurring,” police said. “Many stolen cars are left unlocked and/or have a not-so-well-hidden car key in or on the car. Auto theft is a crime of opportunity.”

Residents are encouraged to lock all car doors before leaving a vehicle unattended.

Police ask residents to call the Santa Cruz Police Department at 831-420-5820 or the Anonymous Tip Line 831-420-5995 to report information about criminal activity. Anyone reporting suspicious activity is asked to call 911.

Photo courtesy Santa Cruz Police Facebook page