The Waverly Police Department has charged Brandon Bland, 18, of Crews Hollow Lane, Waverly, with Theft of Property for his involvement in some recent car burglaries. On July 7 between 11pm and 6am, at least 9 thefts from vehicles were reported in the Fairground Dr., East Main St., and Joe St. areas. The thefts were from unlocked vehicles in private driveways, and items such as car stereos, CD’s, and speakers were reported stolen. Bland was identified as a suspect early in the investigation.

Officers began stepping up patrols in the area, and on July 18, Sgt. Devin Elliott and Officer Chris Taylor stopped 2 males who were acting suspicious in the area. The stop led to the recovery of 4 car stereos and some speaker boxes that had been stolen from the area.

Bland was interviewed by Detectives Jonathan Fortner and Tony Ahne and admitted his involvement in the thefts. Bland has been charged with one count of Theft of Property over $500.00. The investigation is continuing and additional charges will be presented to the Grand Jury in the case. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Detectives.

Chief David Daniel commended the officers and members of the neighborhood for their diligence in solving these cases. “WPD Officers spent a lot of time in the areas where the crime occurred looking for suspicious activity and talking with residents about the crimes. These officers reacted quickly when they saw suspicious activity and this stop led to a felony arrest and recovery of most of the property stolen from the area”, said Chief Daniel.

The Police Department wants to encourage all city residents to keep their vehicles locked and to report any activity which looks suspicious to the Police Department by dialing 911 or 296-7792.