Chambers County, TX — A traffic stop led to a larger retail theft investigation after a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper discovered suspected stolen merchandise and learned the driver was wanted on multiple felony warrants, according to TxDPS.
Authorities identified the driver as Wesley Strambler, 41, of Freeport.
DPS said Strambler allegedly provided false identifying information during the stop in an attempt to conceal his identity because of multiple outstanding felony warrants, including theft-related warrants.
With assistance from the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office, a search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered approximately 100 unopened electrical components and 96 unopened Pokémon booster packs.
Troopers also discovered that the vehicle's license plate had allegedly been swapped with a plate taken from a rental vehicle.
Investigators later reviewed surveillance footage from two separate hardware stores and linked Strambler to the alleged theft of approximately 67 boxes of Eaton-brand receptacles valued at about $3,700.
Strambler was charged with:
• Failure to Identify — Fugitive
• Felony Theft of Property
INVESTIGATORS SEEK OWNERS OF PROPERTY
Authorities are working to identify the owner or owners of the remaining suspected stolen merchandise recovered during the investigation.
Anyone with information about the items is asked to contact:
Lufkin DPS Communications: 936-699-7340
The charges are allegations. Strambler is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
