Serial package theft suspect in custody

On Sunday, April 26, 2020, around 9:20 AM, an older model green Ford Mustang stopped in front of a residence in the Stonefield Subdivision in Kyle, Texas. The male driver exited the vehicle, walked to the front door of the house, and stole a package from the front porch.

Video surveillance photos were obtained from the victim’s camera and a social media post was created. Tips and more photos came pouring in, and with the help from the citizens of Hays and Travis counties, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office was able to identify the suspect as:

John Michael Rodriguez, White Male, DOB: 07/27/1981

On April 29, 2020, based on the social media information, a caller contacted the Hays County Sheriff’s Office and reported seeing the vehicle matching the description on the social media post driving around in their neighborhood. Responding deputies were searching the area and located a stopped vehicle that had run out of gas. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Rodriguez. After a subsequent investigation, Rodriguez was arrested on multiple drug charges.

Rodriguez was later identified in several package thefts in Hays County and the City of Austin and a theft from an Austin CVS store.

Without the help from our vigilant citizens in both Hays and Travis counties, this thief may have never been caught. Sheriff Gary Cutler sends his thanks to everyone involved and encourages citizens to keep sending tips on suspicious vehicles and people. Together, we can make a difference.

- Submitted the Hays County Sheriff’s Office