Watch CBS News

iPhone GPS Aids In Capture Of Car Theft Suspect

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - Police say an iPhone left in a stolen truck is how officers were able to capture a burglar suspected of multiple auto break-ins in Colorado Springs.

Joshua Mitzelfelt
Joshua Mitzelfelt (credit: CBS)

Officials at the El Pas County Sheriff's office said Joshua Mitzelfelt, 29, allegedly stole a truck left unattended and running in a driveway Tuesday morning. The owner's iPhone was on the front seat.

The truck's owner began tracking his vehicle's location though a website monitoring the phone's GPS application while updating sheriff dispatchers. Officers spotted the truck about seven miles from the owner's residence and arrested the driver.

Police were able to link items found in the vehicle to other burglaries in the area. Mitzelfelt has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, second degree aggravated motor vehicle theft and first degree burglary.

For more on how iPhones are helpful and also possibly harmful when it comes to tracking applications, watch CBS4 reporter Dominic Garcia's report below:

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.