Four charged in car thefts
FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — Four juveniles have been charged in connection with a string of car burglaries that occurred the week of the Maine Potato Blossom Festival.
“During the weekend of the Potato Blossom Festival, the Fort Fairfield Police Department covered numerous complaints of motor vehicle burglaries, including three motor vehicle thefts. All three vehicles were recovered and returned to their owners,” said Chief Bill Campbell, of the FFPD.
According to Campbell, the four juveniles had removed vehicles from three separate residences and reportedly used the automobiles to “joy ride.”
“Two of the vehicles were returned back to the respective owner’s property and one vehicle was abandoned off Route167 in Fort Fairfield. During the crime spree, the juveniles entered unlocked motor vehicles, removing keys and other valuables. A lot of the items were recovered, but some items are still missing,” said Campbell.
Police did a thorough investigation leading up to the youths being charged in connection with the crimes.
“Fort Fairfield officers conducted interviews and subsequently charged the four juveniles with multiple crimes. The juveniles will be charged with one Class C, felony theft by unauthorized taking or transfer; two Class D, unauthorized use of property; 16 Class D, burglary of a motor vehicle; and two Class E, theft by unauthorized taking or transfer,” Campbell said.
As the investigation continues, more charges may be filed against the juveniles. The four youth, whose names are not being released because they are minors, were summoned to court and released into the custody of a parent or guardian. A court appearance is scheduled in October for each individual.
Officer Dale Keegan, of the FFPD, served as primary investigator on the case, with assistance from Sgt. Shawn Newell, of the FFPD.
