Engine Repair Shop Reports $15K Equipment Theft

PASCO COUNTY, CA – Pasco sheriff's deputies this week arrested a man in connection with the weekend theft of roughly $15,000 of property from Hyatts Small Engine Repair Shop.

Deputies were called Monday to the business on the 9200 block of S.R. 52 in the Bayonet Point-Hudson area where operators reported such supplies as generators, signs and other miscellaneous items, valued at approximately $15,000, were missing, according to the Pasco Sheriff's Office.

A review of surveillance footage showed a suspect vehicle on the property, which later was stopped for a traffic infraction, the agency said.

"From leads generated by the traffic stop, a suspect by the name of Brian Pruitt was developed," the department said.

Detectives went to a site on the 9200 block of Teak Street where they allegedly found Pruitt dismantling a generator that matched the description of one of the stolen items, deputies said. Pruitt reportedly gave permission for law enforcement to enter the yard, and the victim and a witness then went to the site and positively identified two generators, a sign, a tire, metal and other items, officials said.

Pruitt, who allegedly told deputies he was released two weeks ago from prison, was arrested for suspicion of grand theft. According to officials, Pruitt's criminal history includes thefts, burglaries and other violent and non-violent crimes.

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--Image via Renee Schiavone, Patch