3 arrested in Taylor County car burglary & theft investigation

TAYLOR COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Three suspects have been arrested in connection with a string of car burglaries and thefts across Taylor County.

On Thursday, September 25, 2025, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) arrested Joe Fernandez on a felony warrant. According to investigators, Fernandez is a known suspect in multiple car burglaries and thefts throughout the county, including incidents reported at local universities. Stolen property has allegedly included firearms, vehicles, and money.

During Fernandez’s arrest, two additional suspects, Jacob Rose and Ariah Torres, were also taken into custody. TCSO says all three were found in possession of several stolen firearms, along with illegal narcotics, including psilocybin and THC.

The ongoing investigation has already led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle in Callahan County. Fernandez, Rose, and Torres are currently facing charges of:

• 3 counts of theft of firearms
• Possession of a controlled substance – psilocybin
• Possession of a controlled substance – THC

Fernandez remains in the Taylor County Jail on bonds totaling 1,000. Rose is being held on ,000 in bonds, and Torres is being held on 0,000.

TCSO adds that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues. The sheriff’s office also thanked the Abilene Police Department, Callahan County Sheriff’s Office, and Abilene Christian University Police Department for their assistance.

Anyone with information related to recent car burglaries in Taylor County is urged to contact the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office at (325) 674-1300.