A man is in custody after a string of vehicle thefts.

 

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office has been investigating a number of thefts, starting with an incident last Friday when deputies were alerted to the theft of a black 2012 Hyundai Elantra from south Brookside Avenue in rural Independence. Alongside the vehicle, other items were reported stolen.

 

The next day, an employee at Ralph Mitchell Park discovered some of the stolen items near the Lone Chief cabin. Later that day, the owner of the stolen vehicle located the vehicle at the Apple Tree Inn, prompting a joint response from the Independence Police Department and deputies.

 

On the same day, another vehicle theft was reported on South Cement St. Deputies responded and learned the stolen Silver 2006 Chrysler 300 went into Independence City limits. Later deputies located the Chrysler 300 traveling south on County Road 3900. The deputies attempted to stop the vehicle which resulted in a vehicle and foot chase that ended south of Independence. The suspect was identified as Andy Ochoa. Further investigation revealed Ochoa was in possession of stolen property, including a handgun stolen out of Independence. Deputies also located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and suspected fentanyl. Ochoa was transported to the Montgomery County Department of Corrections where he was booked into DOC. Following an investigation, Ochoa was also arrested for his involvement in the theft of the Hyundai Elantra. Both cases will be forwarded to the Montgomery County Attorney’s Office for further legal proceedings.