On April 8, 2024, deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office participated in a multi-agency Beat Auto Theft Through Law Enforcement (BATTLE) operation, a specialized initiative targeting complex vehicle-related crimes. At approximately 3:00 PM, deputies attempted a traffic stop on a black Toyota FJ Cruiser with no license plates. The driver refused to stop, fled the area, and was later confirmed to have also eluded the Colorado Springs Police Department multiple times in recent days.
On April 26, 2024, deputies located the Toyota in the 4000 block of Loomis Avenue. The vehicle was recovered, and search warrants were executed after investigators found evidence linking it to multiple crimes. Deputies seized 34 grams of methamphetamine, several pieces of drug paraphernalia commonly used for distribution, altered checks, forged documents, and personal identifying information belonging to more than 120 victims across the Pikes Peak region.
Following an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Intelligence Unit, the suspects were identified as 47-year-old Juanita Martinez and 29-year-old Justin Stroup.
Martinez and Stroup were arrested on the following charges:
- Second Degree Motor Vehicle Theft
- Second Degree Burglary
- Vehicular Eluding
- Reckless Driving
- Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute
- Multiple counts of Forgery and Criminal Possession of Financial Documents
On November 20, 2024, Justin Stroup pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four years in the Colorado Department of Corrections. On September 11, 2025, Juanita Martinez pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six years in the Colorado Department of Corrections.
“This case demonstrates my unwavering commitment to holding criminals accountable,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “Those who prey on our community by stealing property, trafficking dangerous drugs, and exploiting innocent citizens will not find safe harbor in El Paso County. They will be caught, prosecuted, and face the full weight of the law. My deputies and our partners worked tirelessly to deliver justice in this case, and we will continue to dismantle criminal enterprises that threaten the safety and security of our residents.”
