FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — A recent arrest has drawn concern in Fairfax County over U-Haul thefts.
On June 15, during a routine patrol, Auto Crime Enforcement detectives located a stolen U-Haul in the Huntington area of Alexandria.
The U-Haul was reported stolen from a local dealership.
ACE units arrested the only occupant, Vencent Edward Evans, 30, of Capitol Heights, Maryland.
During a search of the recovered vehicle, officers located a gun, three extended magazines, and more than 200 rounds of ammunition.
"We recovered a firearm from the streets. That's just as important as recovering a stolen vehicle," Lieutenant James Curry told WUSA9 about the recent arrest.
Police charged Evans with unauthorized use, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of ammo by a convicted felon.
Evans is currently being held at the Adult Detention Center without a bond.
Since January, there have been 32 U-Hauls reported as stolen or the vehicles were not returned within the county.
"When we look at stolen vehicles, this is a crime that's not solely a property crime that is isolated to just that. It can be so much more and that is why we take it so seriously," said Curry.
On May 11th, Fairfax County Police narrowed in on a stolen U-Haul at a Mount Vernon gas station that was being driven by Brandon Lamagne. Officers attempted to arrest the 38-year-old, but police say he fought back and tried repeatedly to take an officer's gun. During a violent struggle, police shot and killed Lamagne on the scene.
Curry says there is no clear reason as to why U-Haul trucks are being targeted, but in some cases, they are an indication of other possible crimes. "It could be a vessel to be used in a crime to steal other property. It's only a small part of our investigation, but at this traffic stop showed, some individuals are armed," said Curry in reference to the June 15 arrest.
Detectives and Crime Prevention Officers continue to work with local rental vehicle distributors to ensure protocols are in place to keep their property safe.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Fairfax County police at 703-246-7800, option 5. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone at 866-411-8477, and by web.
WATCH NEXT: