Rancho Mirage, CA - The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a cat burglar in the community. Michael Zibell, a 47-year-old resident of Thousand Palms, was apprehended for his involvement in a residential burglary in the Escala gated community.
According to Michael Zibell, the suspect gained entry by first burglarizing the victim’s vehicle and then using the garage door opener to access the garage. The stolen items included possessions from both the vehicle and the garage.
The Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team (SET) deputies were able to gather evidence linking Zibell to the burglary. He was later located and arrested on May 1, 2024, in the city of Rancho Mirage. Zibell is facing charges of first-degree burglary and possession of stolen property, with a bail set at $500,000.
In response to the incident, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement urging community members to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard their belongings and residences. The office emphasized the importance of removing valuables from vehicles and ensuring the security of both vehicles and homes to prevent thefts and enhance community safety.
The investigation into the burglary is ongoing, with Deputy Jacob Paull from the Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team leading the case. Individuals with any information pertinent to the case are encouraged to contact Deputy Paull at the Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station.
"The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind community members it is always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect our belongings and homes," stated the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
As the case progresses, the authorities are seeking cooperation from the public to aid in the investigation. For media inquiries related to the incident, the Media Information Bureau is available for contact.
For those interested in pursuing a career with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, applications can be submitted through joinrso.org.