Posted by: thepinetree on 06/09/2020 03:22 PM
Updated by: thepinetree on 06/09/2020 03:22 PM
Expires: 01/01/2025 12:00 AM
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COVID-19 Released Inmate Goes on Crime Spree Leading to High Speed Chases
San Andreas, CA...Joseph Robert Westbrook (25 years old, Valley Springs) was released from the Calaveras County Jail on April 13th, 2020, due to the judicial zero bail order concerning Covid-19. Shortly after his release, he was identified as being responsible for multiple thefts and at least one burglary in the Valley Springs area. On May 21st, deputies were successful in obtaining a warrant from the Calaveras County Superior Court charging Westbrook with PC 459 Felony Burglary, PC 530.5(A) Felony ID theft and PC 664/484G Attempted Forgery.
On June 9th, 2020, at about 6:00 PM a Calaveras County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to initiate a vehicle enforcement stop on Hwy 49 near San Andreas, CA. The driver of the vehicle, Joseph Robert Westbrook, failed to yield to the deputy and accelerated down Gold Strike Road. Westbrook reached speeds of 100 MPH while passing vehicles over double lines as he drove through San Andreas. Westbrook turned onto Central Hill Road and used his vehicle to ram a closed cattle gate open. While traveling in a field, he struck a tree branch that fell into the path of the deputy. The deputy was unable to continue due to the tree branch blocking his path of travel. Westbrook eventually struck another gate to exit the field and momentarily evade law enforcement. The damage to both gates was estimated at $1,000.00 each.
A California Highway Patrol Officer in the area spotted the vehicle near Mokelumne Hill and attempted to stop him. Westbrook again failed to stop and attempted to flee. CHP initiated a second pursuit. During the pursuit with CHP, Westbrook exited the vehicle and ran into a field. The CHP officers ran after him and placed him in custody without further incident.
Westbrook complained of shortness of breath and began vomiting soon after his arrest. He was taken to the hospital for treatment prior to being booked into the Calaveras County Jail. Westbrook was charged with VC 2800.2 Felony Evading, PC 594B) (1) Felony Vandalism, and the outstanding felony warrant. His new charges were eligible for the judicial Covid-19 release; however the warrant was not. He is held on the charges relating to the warrant with a bail of $110,000.00.
There is no further information at this time as all the cases involving Joseph Robert Westbrook are still under investigation.
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