HITCHCOCK — A months-long stolen vehicle investigation led to an arrest Wednesday, after members of the Gulf Coast Auto Crimes Task Force located a stolen car in Galveston County, according to investigators.

Authorities say the task force identified a stolen 2015 Kia Optima parked at a residence in the 4500 block of Swan Street in Freddiesville on December 31. The vehicle had been reported stolen through the Alvin Police Department in November.

Investigators conducted surveillance and later observed two individuals enter the vehicle and leave the residence. With assistance from the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division, officers initiated a traffic stop in the 4400 block of Highway 6 in Hitchcock.

The driver was identified as Daniel Phillips, 46. The Galveston County District Attorney’s Office approved a charge of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. Phillips’ bond was set at $50,000.

Officials say the investigation remains active and additional charges may be filed as the case continues.

The Gulf Coast Auto Crimes Task Force is a multi-agency unit funded by the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority. Participating agencies include the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, Galveston Police Department, League City Police Department, La Marque Police Department and the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. The task force focuses on vehicle theft investigations, crime prevention efforts and analytical support for law enforcement across the region.