Repeat Offender Convicted of Auto Theft

On May 28, 2019, in Department 5 of the Tulare County Superior Court, a jury found Visalia man Gabriel Hinojos, age 24, guilty of one felony count of unlawful taking or driving of a vehicle. In a separate court trial on June 3, 2019, the court found that Hinojos possessed prior felony convictions for auto theft in 2015 and robbery in 2016.

On January 22, 2019, just before noon, the Visalia Police Department pulled Hinojos over during a traffic stop. Upon running the plates, it was discovered that the car was stolen. Hinojos stated that friends allowed use of the vehicle, but could not inform the officer who they were or where they were located.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 8, 2019, in Superior Court where Hinojos faces up to nine years in state prison.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Leah Alvarez of the Special Crimes Division and was investigated by Officer Vincent Muto of the Visalia Police Department.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Assistant District Attorney Dave Alavezos (559) 636-5494