Man faces 12 years in prison after auto burglary conviction

A Las Cruces man was found guilty Wednesday in an auto burglary case.

Ryan Wilson, 26, was found guilty on charges of Non-Residential Burglary, Burglary of a Vehicle and Criminal Damage to Property on Monday in the Third Judicial District Court.

Wilson’s prior criminal history and this conviction mean he is facing a total of 12 years in prison.

According to reports, on December 1, 2014, Sgt. Joshua Savage and his K-9 were on patrol in the Amador and Espanola Street area when a silver BMW, with sounding alarm and flashing lights in the intersection, caught his attention.

As Savage approached, Wilson exited the vehicle and ran which caused Savage and his K-9 “Zero” to pursue.

Zero was able to get a “target lock” and engaged Wilson in the upper chest.

With further investigation it was revealed that Wilson had gained access into “Deals on Wheels” and located the keys to the BMW.

At the time of the incident, Savage and Zero had been with the Las Cruces Police Department for more than five years.

Prosecuting Attorney Thomas Limon said in a statement, “Dozens of people have surrendered to Zero, but this was the first time he had to engage a subject. He and Sergeant Savage worked in concert to perfection ultimately apprehending Mr. Wilson.”

A sentencing date has not been set.