Man in custody after stealing vehicle at SSM Health in Fond du Lac

On Wednesday, January 15, 2025 the City of Fond du Lac Police Department coordinated a multi-agency response to a stolen vehicle from SSM Health St Agnes Hospital, that resulted in a recovery of the vehicle and apprehension of the suspect in Beaver Dam.

Fond du Lac City Police Chief Aaron Goldstein stated, “The recovery of this stolen vehicle without damage and the swift apprehension of the suspect highlight the power of our collaboration with neighboring agencies and the effectiveness of Flock license plate recognition technology.  By leveraging this technology, Fond du Lac Police Department Officers were able to track the vehicle in real-time and coordinate a rapid response ensuring a safe resolution.  This police work highlights the critical role of technology and collaboration in safeguarding our communities and ensuring accountability for criminal behavior.” 

At 11:14 a.m. on January 15th, Fond du Lac Police Department Officers responded to 430 E. Division Street for a report of a work van that had been stolen approximately twenty minutes prior.  The work van was left unlocked and running in the parking lot.  As Fond du Lac Police Department Officers began canvassing the area, officers reported seeing the stolen vehicle register on the Flock camera license plate recognition system as it merged onto US Highway 41 from South Hickory Street.

A short time later another officer confirmed the stolen vehicle was spotted on a Flock camera in the City of Beaver Dam.  Information was relayed to the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and Beaver Dam Police Department.  Dodge County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and Beaver Dam Police Officers located the stolen vehicle in a Walmart parking lot and took a 43-year-old Columbus male into custody without incident.

A Fond du Lac Police Department Officer responded to Beaver Dam and transported the suspect to the Fond du Lac County Jail to be held on the charge of Operate Motor Vehicle Without Owner’s Consent.

The Fond du Lac Police Department continues to urge motorists not to leave their vehicles unattended while running, as this significantly reduces the risk of theft.

The City of Fond du Lac Police Department was assisted by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and Beaver Dam Police Department.