Traffic stop leads to felony burglary charges

An idling truck led to felony burglary charges Sunday.

Lebanon Officer Jason Toporowski noticed a Dodge Ram truck that seemed to just be idling at the intersection of North Cumberland Street and East Market Street at about 11:30 a.m., so he approached the truck to investigate.

“Upon approaching the vehicle, Toporowski noticed the driver and passenger were passed out with the truck in gear and running,” according to police.

“Once he got them out, he noticed a lot of electronic devices in there, including GPSes,” said Chief Scott Bowen.

A consensual search of the truck revealed several items, including three GPS units.

“[Toporowski] turned the GPSes on, and hit “home,” and was able to find the home addresses,” said Bowen.

According to police, the GPS units and other items found in the truck – as well as several items later found at a home on Ward Street – were taken from eight to 10 vehicles parked in the Richmond Hills and Five Oaks subdivision.

Bowen said most of the vehicles were unlocked.

“They’re there for that easy opportunity,” said Bowen. “We’re talking 15-20 seconds, grab what you’ve got, and they’re gone.”

Police charged the driver, Brandon Shelton, 19, of Lebanon, with two felony counts of burglary to a vehicle and two counts of theft.

Police believe two juveniles were also involved and may be charged at a later date.