On Monday, February 6, 2017 at approximately 11:30 am, an officer with the Vidor Police Department initiated a traffic stop on IH-10 at FM 1132 for a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed. The driver produced a Texas DL identifying himself as 30 year old David Henry Wurtz. When the Officer asked dispatch to verify the DL and if there were any warrants, a detective from the Vidor PD recognized the name from an on-going investigation involving a counterfeit check cashing ring that involved a vehicle pursuit last week. Upon arrival on the scene by the Detective, he identified the Driver by his real name, William Elbert Grubbs, age 45. Upon being confronted with his real identity, Mr. Grubbs began to run away at which time officers initiated a foot pursuit and tased Mr. Grubbs. Mr. Grubbs was placed in custody and transported to the Orange County Correctional Facility.
During an inventory of the vehicle, officers located 2 loaded pistols with one being reported stolen. In the rear of the vehicle officers located two printers, laptop computer, numerous fictitious checks, a large amount of blank check paper stock, and 18 government issued identification cards issued to numerous individuals. It appears that this check cashing ring has been operating throughout Southeast Texas from Houston to Orange County.
Mr. Grubbs has an extensive criminal history. Chief Carroll would like to commend the officers involved on their diligence in the investigation and removing a dangerous criminal from our community.
William Elbert Grubbs Age: 45 Hometown: Orange, Texas
The charges are as follows:
Charge Bond
Felon in Possession of a Firearm Pending
Felon in Possession of a Firearm Pending
Possession of a Controlled Substance (warrant) $100,000
Fraudulent Use or Possession of Identifying Information Pending
Forgery of a Financial Instrument Pending
Forgery of a Government Document Pending
Possession of a Controlled Substance Pending
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