MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a
Sheriff's deputies responded to reports of vehicle thefts on February 23 and 24, according to Montgomery County Sheriff Ron Wade.
The first incident occurred on February 23, when deputies were alerted to the theft of a black 2012 Hyundai Elantra from south Brookside Avenue in rural Independence.
In addition to the vehicle, other items were reported stolen. Despite initial challenges, deputies continued their efforts to recover the stolen property.
A breakthrough came on February 24, when a diligent employee at Ralph Mitchell Park discovered some of the stolen items near the Lone Chief cabin.
Later that day, the owner of the stolen vehicle located the it at the Apple Tree Inn, prompting a joint response from the Independence Kansas Police Department and deputies.
The vehicle was successfully processed and returned to its rightful owner. However, on the same day, another vehicle theft was reported on South Cement Street.
Deputies responded and learned the stolen Silver 2006 Chrysler 300 went into Independence City limits. Later deputies located the Chrysler 300 traveling south on County Road 3900.
The deputies attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to stop and continued fleeing from the deputies. The deputies gave chase for a few miles when the vehicle stopped on South Second Street, south of Independence.
The suspect bailed out of the vehicle and ran. Deputies gave chase and were able to successfully apprehend the suspect identified as Andy Ochoa.
Further investigation revealed Ochoa was in possession of stolen property, including a handgun that was reported stolen out of the City of Independence.
Deputies also located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and suspected fentanyl.
Ochoa was transported to the Montgomery County Department of Corrections where he was booked on multiple requested charges.