On Aug. 11 multiple thefts from unlocked motor vehicles were reported from residents on Red Barn Road and the surrounding vicinity in the Walker Valley area. The Town of Shawangunk Police Department conducted an investigation on the complaints they received and used evidence that was available. The department was able to pursue a search warrant based on that evidence.

On Aug. 12, the Shawangunk Police Department in conjunction with the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, the Village of Ellenville Police Department and the New York State Police implemented and carried out a search warrant at a residence in the Village of Ellenville. The results of the search were productive to the investigation and further evidence was recovered. Shawangunk Chief of Police Gerald Marlatt confirmed that a collaborative effort of all those involved has pointed the investigation in the right direction and will most likely lead to the arrest of one or more suspects.

The investigation is ongoing at this time, so the Shawangunk Police are asking anyone who has any information relating to the larcenies from vehicles in the Walker Valley area to contact either Officer Vail at ofc.vail@shawangunk.org or Officer Spinato at ofc.spinato@shawangunk.org.

Marlatt reminded residents to lock their vehicles even while parked in their own driveway. In his experience people are more likely to steal from unlocked vehicles than locked ones. Any criminal incidents and suspicious activities should be reported to the Shawangunk Police Department by calling (845)-895-2233 or 911 in an emergency.