An employee of the California Highway Patrol has been arrested on suspicion of embezzlement after allegedly stealing vehicle components from the agency, CHP officials confirmed.
Dareth “John” Chau, 54, an auto technician with the CHP and a resident of Altadena, was arrested on Dec. 3 following what the agency described as an extensive investigation into an alleged embezzlement scheme.
According to investigators, Chau is accused of taking vehicle components from the CHP and selling them to an alleged co-conspirator, Mario Roberto Castellano of Castaic. Authorities believe Castellano then resold the stolen parts or used them on vehicles he later sold.
Detectives executed search warrants at both men’s homes and recovered evidence connected to the alleged scheme, including stolen property. During the searches, investigators also discovered an illegal firearm, officials said.
Chau is facing potential charges that include embezzlement by a public officer, receiving stolen property, grand theft by an employee or agent, and conspiracy. The investigation remains ongoing.
