In April of 2019 Officers with the Marianna Police Department responded to Marianna Toyota, located in Marianna, FL, in reference to the burglary of a vehicle. Upon arrival officers learned that a 2019 Toyota Tacoma had been broken in to and the front driver and passenger seats had been removed as well as the entire steering column. Officers on scene were able to gather sufficient evidence that later led investigators to develop James Ovalle as a suspect. Investigators were finally able to locate Ovalle on June 15, 2020 who was being housed in the Okaloosa County Jail on unrelated charges. Investigators traveled to Okaloosa County Jail the same day to interview Ovalle. During the interview investigators were able to gather enough information to ultimately charge Ovalle. During the interview, investigators learned the property was currently at Ovalle’s residence in Walton County. Investigators went to Ovalle’s residence with the assistance of Walton County Sheriff’s Office and recovered the stolen property. Investigators were able to obtain a warrant for Ovalle’s arrest. Chief Baggett would like to thank the Walton County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the investigation. Chief Baggett encourages everyone that see’s any suspicious behavior to please contact the Marianna Police Department at 850-526-3125.
James Thomas Ovalle, 27, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida- Burglary to a conveyance, Grand theft value more than $1,000, Criminal mischief value more than $1,000.
