Justin Thomas Strasburg was arrested in Saratoga Springs in the evening for May 19, 2020. Thomas was arrested after using a U-Haul truck to steal garage doors from construction sites to install in other people’s garages. During his interview, he said he was responsible for stealing eight different garage doors. They were stolen from Vineyard, Eagle Mountain as well as West Valley City. Justin would drive around and find construction sites and steal the garage doors. Then he would advertise on different sites for cheap garage door installation. He would then install the garage doors he had previously stolen.
The Utah County Sheriff’s Office released a press release on May 20, 2020 giving details on the incident. The press release notes that construction site thefts are not uncommon, but this type of theft is unique. Justin worked for a company installing and servicing garage doors. It noted that “he has an extensive criminal history” for related charges. Residents near construction sites should make sure they stay aware of their surroundings and notice unusual activity at construction sites. It is also a good idea for Eagle Mountain residents to deploy theft and property protection deterrents. Some deterrents include dogs, security cameras, motion lights, and yard fences.
Utah County Sheriff’s Office Press Release
*** PRESS RELEASE May 20, 2020 ***
On May 19, 2020, around 5:00 PM, a Detective with the Utah County Sheriff’s Office was investigating a man suspected of stealing garage doors and related parts from homes under construction. This man, Justin Thomas Strasburg, age 35, Pleasant Grove, had placed ads on social media offering to install garage doors for less than other companies. The Detective tried several times to arrange an appointment for Strasburg, who had recently been arrested for a similar crime in Salt Lake County, to install a garage door for him.
After finally arranging to do the work, Strasburg told the detective he had the garage door and needed to install it quickly because he was out of money. Strasburg arrived at the agreed upon location driving an enclosed U-Haul box truck. When the Detective approached and told Strasburg to get out of the truck, that he was not free to leave, Strasburg started the truck, put it in gear, and drove away, ignoring the order of the Detective to stop.
The Detective tried to follow but lost sight of Strasburg for a short time. He then saw an Officer from another agency stopped in front of Strasburg. Coordinating with Officers from nearby agencies they found the crashed U-Haul truck near the Saratoga Springs fire station. They then found Strasburg fleeing on foot. A short distance away he was detained.
During an interview,s Strasburg admitted to the Sheriff’s Office Detective that he was responsible for eight different thefts where he stole garage doors and openers in Vineyard and Eagle Mountain. He also told the Detective the garage door he had planned on installing for him he had stolen earlier from a home in West Valley City. In addition to that case in West Valley City, at least two other law enforcement agencies have active investigations where Strasburg is the suspect.
Strasburg has been booked into the Utah County Jail on felony charges including theft, burglary, evading, and drug possession. He also faces lesser traffic-related charges. His bail has been set at just over $71,000.00 cash or bond.
While construction site thefts are not uncommon, theft of complete garage door systems is rather unique. Strasburg had recently held a job working for a company that installs and services garage doors. He has an extensive criminal history for similar charges.
For questions contact Sergeant Spencer Cannon, Public Information Officer, Utah County Sheriff’s Office.
(801)404-1912 – Cell
(801)851-4333 – Office
Twitter: @SGTCannonPIO or @UCSO
Email: jamesc@utahcounty.gov
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.