Springs Deputies Bust Vehicle Theft Ring, Recover Stolen Truck and Financial Documents Near Peterson Space Force Base

El Paso County law enforcement scored a win for local residents this week, apprehending a suspect in an ongoing vehicle theft investigation that highlights rising property crime concerns in the Pikes Peak region. The arrest occurred in the early hours of Tuesday near the critical Peterson Road corridor, an area serving many of our military families and local businesses.

Alert deputies patrolling near the Highway 24 and Peterson Road interchange spotted suspicious activity at approximately 1:30 a.m. at the Econo Lodge Hotel in the 6000 block of Panamint Court. Their attention was drawn to a pickup truck displaying fraudulent temporary registration plates - a growing problem facing Colorado vehicle owners.

Investigation Reveals Broader Criminal Activity

The vehicle, which deputies discovered had been reported stolen in March, led investigators to 33-year-old Brandy Cheeks, who was found in possession of:

• Keys to the stolen pickup truck
• Multiple checks made out to various individuals and businesses
• Several blank checks raising identity theft concerns
• Approximately 0.5 grams of methamphetamine

Further investigation revealed Cheeks had an existing warrant for identity theft, suggesting a pattern of criminal activity affecting Colorado residents and businesses. While she has since posted bond, she faces multiple charges related to the incident.

Impact on Local Community

This case highlights ongoing vehicle theft challenges facing Colorado Springs residents. According to law enforcement officials, the proximity to major transportation corridors like Highway 24 makes the area particularly vulnerable to vehicle-related crimes.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office encourages local residents to:

• Verify temporary vehicle registration plates carefully when purchasing used vehicles
• Report suspicious activity around hotels and commercial areas
• Protect personal and financial documents that could enable identity theft
• Maintain vigilance in areas near major highways and military installations

The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine if additional Colorado victims may be identified through the recovered financial documents.

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