MADCAT Operation Leads to Stolen Vehicle Arrest

DATE/TIME: 10/6/2026 6:00 PM

TYPE OF INCIDENT: MADCAT Operation Leads to Stolen Vehicle Arrest in Salinas

LOCATION: 1000 Block Main Street, Salinas, California

MEDIA CONTACT: Andres Rosas, Commander, 831-261-5492, [email protected]

On October 5, 2026, at approximately 9:30 p.m., members of the Monterey County Multi-Agency Detail Combatting Auto Theft (MADCAT) observed Brady Sabat, 46, of San Jose, driving a stolen vehicle near the 1000 block of Main Street in the City of Salinas.

Deputies from the Monterey County Sheriff's Office Enforcement Bureau conducted a traffic stop and took Sabat into custody without incident. Sabat was booked into the Monterey County Jail for possession of a stolen vehicle and possession of a controlled substance.

The arrest is the latest result of ongoing MADCAT operations focused on identifying and recovering stolen vehicles and holding individuals involved in vehicle theft and related crimes accountable.

MADCAT is a multi-agency effort currently staffed by the Monterey County Sheriff's Office and Greenfield Police Department, with assistance from partner agencies including the Salinas Police Department and the California Highway Patrol. The collaboration allows participating agencies to share personnel and resources while conducting proactive vehicle theft investigations throughout Monterey County.

Sheriff Tina Nieto stated, "Through the first nine months of this year, MADCAT has recovered 133 stolen vehicles valued at more than $1.5 million and made 26 arrests. These results reflect the outstanding work of those assigned to the team and our partner agencies. Their efforts send a clear message to auto thieves that Monterey County is not the place to steal vehicles."

Recoveries this year have included passenger cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, trailers, and heavy equipment including those associated with our local agriculture industry. Suspects have been booked on charges including vehicle theft, receiving stolen property, and related offenses.

Brady Sabat is currently booked at the Monterey County Jail and is being held on $30,000.00 bail.