SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In May of 2018, California Highway Patrol (CHP), Valley Division Investigative Services Unit (ISU), identified a series of vehicle thefts that were being stolen on a nightly basis, several in one evening. The CHP ISU investigators began collecting evidence, and surveillance video of the thefts to build their case. As the investigation progressed, investigators identified three suspects who were deemed to be responsible for the thefts of the vehicles. The suspects were also in possession of stolen property related to the vehicle thefts.
Several key thefts were identified during this investigation which was reported by the media. Specifically, a visiting band from Austin, TX, whose van and trailer containing their band equipment were stolen from a local Sacramento hotel parking lot. On August 9, 2018, CHP ISU investigators arrested Barry A. Matthews and Dustin Pierman of Sacramento, CA, as well as Joe S. Curtis of Citrus Heights, CA.
Following their arrest, CHP ISU served several search warrants at various locations where stolen property from the thefts was located, including an illegal assault weapon.
All suspects posted bail and were released from jail. Soon thereafter, investigators noticed an increase in vehicle thefts matching the prior theft circumstances. The CHP ISU with the assistance of the Sacramento County Auto Theft Suppression Task Force and the North Sacramento CHP Area opened an investigation into these thefts. During the investigation it was discovered that two vehicles stolen were from victims of the recent Camp Fire evacuees. Through the investigation, Barry Matthews was identified as a suspect in the vehicle thefts.
On December 6, 2018, CHP ISU arrested Matthews in connection with these new vehicle thefts. Numerous pieces of stolen property were in Matthews possession which connected him to 11 different victims of auto theft and vehicle burglary. Some of the property located belonged to the two Camp Fire victims who had their vehicles stolen. The CHP ISU has identified additional suspects who were working in conjunction with Matthews. Once completed, CHP believes additional arrests will be made related to this investigation.
The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
