West Fargo (trfnews.i234.me) — A man faces felony charges after police say he stole a car late Monday night.
Report of a stolen car
Police say the theft was reported at about 10:15 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 9.
The call came from the 3300 block of Sheyenne Street in West Fargo.
The caller said the keys were left inside the vehicle.
Police did not release the owner’s name.
Flock camera alert
Officers then received an alert at about 10:34 p.m.
Police said a Flock Safety camera flagged the stolen vehicle.
The alert was near Seventh Avenue East and 17th Street East.
Police say they located the car within minutes.
Arrest and suspect
Officers arrested Andrew Charles LaFountaine, 26, police said.
Police said he had no permanent address.
Police did not list the car’s make or model.
No injuries were reported in the incident.
Charges listed
Police say LaFountaine is facing these charges:
- Felony theft.
- Theft from a motor vehicle.
- Driving under suspension.
- Driving under the influence.
- DUI refusal.
- Multiple probation violations.
A refusal charge can follow a denied chemical test.
Police did not release more details on that claim.
About the camera alert
Flock cameras can read license plates, the company says.
Agencies can set alerts for stolen vehicles, the company says.
Privacy groups also raise concerns about plate tracking.
The ACLU has published reports on the technology.
What happens next
Court records can change fast.
Readers can check case filings through the North Dakota Courts Records Inquiry.
Police reports may be requested through the city’s Police Reports and Records page.
The West Fargo Police Department also posts updates on its official site.
Police said the case remains under review.
Reminder for drivers
Police often warn drivers not to leave keys in a vehicle.
Lock doors and take keys with you.
A locked car can still be stolen.
But it can slow a thief.
Report suspicious activity to police right away.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.