Kingsville Police Collaborate to Arrest Two Suspects in Vehicle Theft Spree
Kingsville Police Department
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS – (News Release) June 24, 2024 – In a coordinated effort, the Kingsville Police Department, Bishop Police Department, and Kleberg County Sheriff's Office have successfully apprehended two suspects involved in a series of vehicle thefts and burglaries that have troubled the area. Jefferson Menendez (19) and Juan Puente (18), both of Kingsville, are now in custody and face multiple felony charges.
The crime spree began early on Friday, June 21, when a vehicle burglary was reported at Kingsville Pointe Apartments. Later that morning, Sames Ford reported the theft of a red Ford pickup from their lot. The stolen vehicle was soon found abandoned in a Bishop convenience store parking lot, thanks to a vigilant store clerk who reported seeing two males leaving the vehicle.
Bishop Police officers reviewed surveillance footage from another convenience store and identified the suspects. Kingsville Police officers recognized the suspects as Menendez and Puente. The investigation gained momentum when the female victim of the initial vehicle burglary reported unauthorized use of her debit card at a convenience store on Highway 77. Surveillance video confirmed Menendez and Puente's involvement.
The suspects continued their criminal activities on Friday evening. A resident of Ruben Circle called the Kleberg County Sheriff’s Office after spotting two males lurking around his property. The suspects fled, leaving two new vehicles stuck in mud. These vehicles were traced back to Neessen Chevrolet, where a large hole in the fence indicated a break-in.
The coordinated search by Kleberg Sheriff’s Deputies and Kingsville Police Officers, although unsuccessful in locating the suspects immediately, led to valuable surveillance footage identifying Menendez and Puente once again. Early Saturday morning, KPD officers responded to a suspicious activity report on N. 6th Street, resulting in the detention of Menendez and Puente. The suspects were found with another stolen vehicle from Neessen Chevrolet.
Both Menendez and Puente have been charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (State Jail Felony) and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (3rd Degree Felony), with additional charges pending.
Kingsville Police Chief John Blair urges all citizens to lock and secure their vehicles and properties. The investigation is ongoing, and more suspects are believed to be involved. Anyone with information is requested to contact the Kingsville Police Department Criminal Investigations at 361-592-4311. To provide information anonymously, please contact Kingsville Crime Stoppers at 361-592-INFO (4636).
