Case of Yacht Theft Solved, Arrest Made
GalvestonCountyPoliceNews.COM
In August Officers of the GPD Patrol Division were dispatched to the Galveston Yacht Basin to investigate the theft of a 31 foot Wellcraft Scarab fishing boat valued at over $150,000. There were initially no leads in the case.
A week later the boat was recovered by the Texas City Police Department. And had been stripped and abandoned.
It was later discovered video surveillance cameras at the Galveston Yacht Basin had captured the theft. This video footage fueled the investigation which led to the development of a suspect in the case.
Further investigation led to the identification of Christopher Ratliff as the person believed to be responsible for the theft. The Galveston County District Attorney's Office accepted charges in this case and an arrest warrant was issued for Ratliff.
Today Christopher Ratliff surrendered himself to the Galveston Police Department on charges of Theft a first degree felony punishable by up to life in prison. Ratliff's bond was set at $100,000.
As lead investigator, Detective John Blackwell is credited with developing leads and bringing about the solution to this crime and the arrest of the perpetrator. The Galveston County Auto Crimes Task Force assisted in the investigation which is continuing.
Additional arrest may be forthcoming.
