Clifton Park man charged with stealing sheriff's office patrol vehicle

A Clifton Park man, Jordan A. Salas, 35, is facing a felony charge for allegedly stealing a marked patrol vehicle from the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office on Friday evening. The incident occurred around 11:00 p.m. when the vehicle, left running outside the Halfmoon substation, was taken while a deputy was processing a separate arrest inside.

The stolen vehicle was tracked down by the New York State Police in the Kingston area approximately an hour later, using GPS technology provided by the Sheriff’s Office. Salas was apprehended without incident and has been charged with grand larceny in the 2nd degree, classified as a class C felony. At the time of theft, there were no weapons in the vehicle, and it was returned without damage.

Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo expressed gratitude for the quick response from law enforcement partners that led to the swift resolution of the theft. He noted that a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the incident would be conducted, with the Sheriff’s Office's Professional Standards Unit assigned to investigate.

Following his arrest, Salas was arraigned in the Milton Town Court and released on his own recognizance as he awaits further proceedings in the Halfmoon Town Court. According to the sheriff’s office, the charge does not meet the criteria for bail placement under New York state law enacted in January 2020.

The case highlights concerns regarding law enforcement protocols and vehicle security, prompting a review to prevent such incidents in the future.