CLEARLAKE OAKS — The recovery of one stolen vehicle led officers to the recovery of a second on Monday. What began as a routine traffic stop for a seatbelt violation led to the arrest of two subjects in cases that appear to be connected, California Highway Patrol stated.
According to CHP Officer Kevin Domby an officer initiated a traffic stop at approximately 2:30 p.m. on a vehicle driven by Joseph Daniel Chavan, 27, of Willits. Officer Domby said that Chavan drove to the south edge of the roadway on Highway 20 west of the “Y” intersection near Y Road where he ran from the vehicle. A foot pursuit ensued and officers from the Clearlake Police Department, Lake County Sheriff”s Department and additional CHP officers responded to assist.
Officer Domby said after about a half an hour, Clearlake Police officers located Chavan hiding the bushes and he was turned over to CHP.
During investigation of the incident officers discovered that the green Chevy Blazer Chavan was driving had a punched ignition. Officer Domby said the registered owner was contact, who said she thought her vehicle was still in the Walmart parking lot.
In addition to being arrested for a stolen vehicle, Chavan was determined to be under the influence and was arrested for DUI.
Officer Domby said that during the investigation officers were prompted to begin a second investigation on a second suspected stolen vehicle. He said a Chevy pick-up allegedly stolen out of Willits was located in the City of Clearlake and a second man was arrested.
Jose Murillo, 32, of Clearlake was arrested for the second stolen vehicle as well as for use of a controlled substance, receiving stolen property and violation of parole.
Investigation continues under Officer M. Crutcher.
Contact South County reporter Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or call her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11.
