PINEVILLE, La. (4/7/2025) – A Pineville suspect arrested for vehicle thefts is facing several felony charges after all stolen vehicles were found crushed, officials confirmed.
On March 26, 2025, deputies responded to the 6000 block of Fifth Street in Alexandria after a vehicle theft was reported.
The victim had left their car at a Pineville auto shop for repairs. When they returned, the vehicle was gone.
Tioga Substation detectives, already familiar with the business, identified Matthew Wesley Johnson as a suspect.
Investigators located the missing vehicle at a local recycling yard. According to a Sheriff’s Office official, the vehicle had already been crushed.
Detectives obtained arrest warrants for Johnson, citing felony theft and property damage, as well as a driving offense.
On March 28, deputies arrested Johnson without incident. He was booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center and released on a $10,500 bond.
Further investigation linked Johnson to two additional vehicles. Both had also been crushed at the same scrapyard, the official confirmed.
Detectives obtained more warrants, including for higher-value vehicle theft and additional property damage charges.
On April 1, a Louisiana State Trooper arrested Johnson during a traffic stop.
He was again booked and later released on April 4 after posting a $20,300 bond.
Investigators believe other victims may still come forward.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detectives Matt Dauzat or Susan Mosley at 318-641-6005.
Tips can also be submitted through the P3 app at p3tips.com.
