Deputies recover construction equipment and tools in Joshua Tree “theft ring” bust

A woman was arrested for allegedly possessing stolen property that may be connected to multiple active theft investigations in the Morongo Basin.

On August 2, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call at a property near the intersection of Heavenly Avenue and Broadway Street in Joshua Tree. Deputies say that the property was under renovation, and the victim had reported a theft of roughly $15,000 in construction equipment and tools. According to law enforcement, deputies noticed wheelbarrow tire tracks and shoe imprints leading to a neighboring property, where they located the reported stolen property.

On August 4, at approximately 3:15 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies returned to the intersection and executed a search warrant at the neighboring property. Law enforcement reports that large amounts of suspected stolen property were recovered, including a rifle, construction tools, and property that deputies believe are related to other active theft investigations. Deputies say that Valerie Glover, 42, was found inside an RV that was previously reported as stolen and was arrested at the scene.

Valerie Glover was arrested for investigation into possession of a stolen vehicle and property and has since been released.

According to law enforcement, this is an active investigation, and deputies are still working to identify the owners of the recovered property and any additional related thefts. Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175 or submit an anonymous tip.