Chicago Teen Faces Charges in Waukesha Luxury Car Theft
Calvin Valentine, a 17-year-old from Chicago, has been charged with four felonies related to the theft of multiple luxury vehicles from Fields Auto Group in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The incident occurred on a Sunday morning and involved a group that stole nine vehicles, with a total value exceeding half a million dollars.
The Charges
The charges against Valentine include:
- Burglary of a building or dwelling
- Operating a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent
- Receiving stolen property valued over $10,000
- Party to criminal damage to property exceeding $2,500
Cash bond was set at $50,000.
The Incident
Police responded to the dealership around 9:10 a.m. after receiving reports of stolen vehicles. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of forced entry, including broken glass and damaged garage doors. Security footage revealed that a silver Chrysler minivan arrived at the dealership at 6 a.m., from which several masked individuals emerged.
These individuals forced entry into the dealership, gained access to the keys, and subsequently stole multiple vehicles. One of the stolen vehicles, a white 2022 Land Rover Velar, was reportedly driven through a garage door, causing significant damage.
Initially, the thieves drove the damaged Velar through the garage. Then, they took another white Land Rover Velar, which they also drove through the same damaged door.
Vehicle Recovery
Authorities report that six of the nine stolen vehicles have been recovered. Four were found abandoned in Chicago, one in Northern Illinois, and one following a police pursuit in West Allis.
Investigation and Further Developments
During the investigation, police discovered that Valentine was taken into custody after a pursuit and crash involving a stolen 2021 Land Rover-Range Rover Westminster, valued at nearly $74,000. After being read his Miranda rights, Valentine provided a statement to the police.
Valentine admitted involvement, claiming he was “doing kid’s stuff.” He acknowledged entering the garage and stealing a vehicle. Valentine is scheduled to return to court on March 4 for a preliminary hearing.
Potential Penalties
If convicted, Valentine could face over 30 years in prison. The Waukesha Police Department is also investigating potential links to similar incidents in other municipalities.
