RUTLAND –– Vermont State Police announced the identification and apprehension of the man involved in the theft of a VSP cruiser and patrol rifle that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, Oct. 17.
The suspect, Timothy Gabriel, 29, from both Burlington and Rutland, was recognized through investigations and assistance from the public.
Gabriel was spotted by state police officers at about 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18, on Cherry Street in Burlington.
He disregarded orders to surrender and was consequently subdued by the troopers.
However, the stolen patrol rifle has yet to be recovered, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont has been in close contact with Vermont State Police concerning this case. Initially, Gabriel is anticipated to face a federal charge for being a felon in possession of a firearm, pertaining to the stolen patrol rifle.
His preliminary hearing in the U.S. District Court in Burlington is scheduled for Thursday afternoon.
VSP is also collaborating with the Rutland County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding the ongoing investigation.
There is potential for additional charges to be filed against Gabriel.
The investigation is also probing the conditions under which the police cruiser, registered to Cpl. Christopher Loyzelle of the Rutland Barracks, was stolen.
