Crime Spree Ends in New Mexico

 

Durango, CO –   On October 26, 2009, officers from San Juan County New Mexico arrested 32- year-old, Farmington resident Ladell Ranford O’Connell after he was located driving a car stolen out of Durango.   O’Connell is suspected of being involved in a crime spree that began in early October and stretched across several jurisdictions and included criminal trespasses, auto thefts, burglaries, and theft.

O’Connell had fled from Durango Police Officers on Sunday when he allegedly drove another stolen car.  Police lost sight of him and recovered the car after it had been involved in a collision. 

Investigators worked closely with several other agencies including Bayfield Marshal’s Office, San Juan County New Mexico Sheriff’s Office, Farmington New Mexico Police Department, Bloomfield, New Mexico Police Department, and Aztec, New Mexico Police Department.  The sharing of information and resources led to O’Connell’s arrest. 

Several search warrants were served on places frequented by Mr. O’Connell and property from additional crimes perpetrated in Durango and La Plata County was recovered. 

O’Connell was booked into jail in New Mexico and is awaiting extradition.  Charges will be filed when O’Connell returns to Colorado.