$6,000 worth of toys stolen along with Salvation Army van before Christmas, suspect now caught

A Salvation Army van loaded with toys was stolen days before Christmas, now police say they have caught the alleged Grinch.

Anthony Crespin was helping a Salvation Army employee load toys into a van at New Mexico Walmart in December when he suddenly took off with the vehicle, KOB 4 reported.

The van was found in Sandoval County, New Mexico, a few weeks later, but Crespin and the toys were gone, KOB 4 reported.

Crespin was arrested by Albuquerque police on Jan. 7 and charged with fourth-degree felony unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, according to KOB 4.

He was extradited to San Juan County on Jan. 13, KOB 4 reported.

Around $6,000 worth of toys were stolen that were meant to be given out to more than 300 children through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, according to KOB 4.

Community members, organizations and businesses stepped in to help, and 546 items were donated totaling $5,000, allowing the Salvation Army to donate gifts to more than 1,000 kids during the holidays, KOB 4 reported.

Crespin’s hearing is set for Feb. 7, according to KOB 4.

He is also wanted by law enforcement on a probation violation warrant, KOB 4 reported.