For Immediate Release
Sergeant Anthony Prencipe
Over the last few months, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office detectives have been part of an ongoing multi-agency investigation into a string of commercial burglaries and robberies spanning nine jurisdictions in four counties.
In each case of this series, two or three people (typically men) dressed in hoodies, long pants, and gloves, targeted gas stations between the hours of midnight and 5 AM with the intention of stealing large volumes of cigarette cartons. The crimes in El Dorado County included 4 burglaries, 1 robbery, and 1 attempted burglary.
A task force was formed, including representatives from EDSO, Placer County Sheriff’s Office, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, Sacramento Police Department, Rocklin Police Department, Galt Police Department, and Auburn Police Department (CA).
On May 26th, two men completed a burglary of the Wine Country station in Camino, making off with over $6,000 in stolen cigarettes. EDSO responded and was able to access the video surveillance, identifying the vehicle involved.
The following morning, an attempted burglary occurred at Snowline Station in Camino. A quick thinking owner was able to view the surveillance and relayed information regarding the vehicle to EDSO. The vehicle was the same as used previously and EDSO Patrol units set up surveillance along Highway 50. Shortly after, we saw the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.
In the vehicle were two men, Miguel Chamizo, Kevin Gilkey, and a 16 year old. The three were taken back for interviews with detectives and later arrested on numerous charges.
This information was relayed to the task force, which assisted in identifying other people suspected of being involved. Placer County Sheriff’s Office was actively working a few leads and asked that we wait to release information, that way the suspects were not aware. As of today, PCSO has arrested more suspects related to these crimes.
We are fortunate to have a good working relationship with the agencies in our area. Crimes that span multiple jurisdictions and counties can be difficult to solve without such a relationship. Great work to all involved!
