October 17th, 2023 by WCBC Radio
On Monday, October 16th, 2023, the Cumberland Police Department responded to the 200 blk. of N. Mechanic Street for the report of a motor vehicle theft that has just occurred. The caller reported that his 2003 Chevrolet S10 was taken while he was inside of a store. Officers responded to the area to initiate the investigation and an attempt to locate the stolen vehicle was broadcasted to surrounding agencies.
A short while later, the Cumberland Police Department was made aware that the stolen vehicle was sighted on N. Mechanic Street travelling in the wrong direction. Officers immediately responded that area and observed the vehicle. An attempt to stop the vehicle by officers lead to the driver failing to stop and eluding officers by driving recklessly on several north end streets. Officers discontinued attempts to stop the vehicle when it became too dangerous to the public.
Shortly after, an Allegany County Sheriff’s Deputy, who was in the area to assist in the investigation, located the unoccupied stolen vehicle in the area of Grand and First Street. When additional officers arrived in the area, a white male matching the description of the suspect observed moments ago by officers was seen attempting to break into another vehicle. Officers confronted the male and a short foot pursuit ensued resulting in the arrest of Jacob Rene Garcia; age 48 of Cumberland. Further investigation discovered that Garcia broke into a residence on Arch Street and attempted to break into another before he was apprehended. Garcia is currently awaiting a bond review at the Allegany County Detention Center.
Charges: Unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, theft, assault, reckless endangerment, destruction of property, trespassing, 4th degree burglary, attempted 4th degree burglary, 3rd degree burglary. Some of the traffic charges include; reckless driving, aggressive driving, fleeing and eluding, and driving on a suspended license.
