Man Wanted for Multiple Vehicle Thefts Caught in Westlake Today

A local man who has dodged local authorities since the beginning of February is finally behind bars.  Forty-two-year-old Richard Dahlheimer was first wanted by Columbia County authorities February 2 for vehicle theft.  Deputies tracked him to the Harlem area where he was spotted in a stolen vehicle.  Authorities lost sight of him and he remained on the loose the last two weeks.

Earlier this week, Dahlheimer was wanted in connection with the theft of several vehicles stolen from United Auto Sales on Washington Road between February 11 and February 13.

He was spotted Saturday in Richmond County and led authorities on a chase into Columbia County.  The Columbia County Sheriff's Office says Dahlheimer abandoned the burgundy Nissan Sentra he was driving and fled on foot into Westlake subdivision.   Authorities set up a perimeter and cautioned residents to remain in their homes.  A Georgia State Patrol helicopter was also used in the search for Dahlheimer.

A post on the sheriff's office Facebook page said they would continue to have a law enforcement presence in the area throughout the night.  Investigators say he was finally cornered today underneath a house in Westlake.  He is now being held in the Columbia County Detention Center.

Dahlheimer has a lengthy criminal history.  He was just released from prison in October, 2022 after serving time for arson, theft and obstruction.