AKRON, PA — An Oregon man faces multiple charges, including burglary, criminal trespass, and theft, following an alleged unauthorized entry into a local Akron business and subsequent theft of checks. The West Earl Police Department (WEPD) credits the arrest to the alertness of a local resident who reported suspicious activity.
At 5:35 AM on January 5, 2024, WEPD was alerted to a suspected burglary at Ranck Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, located at 118 N. 7th Street, Akron. A vigilant resident had noticed a male allegedly attempting to gain unauthorized access to the business premises and promptly informed the business, which then contacted the police.
Responding officers Jeremy Sorensen, Samantha Heise, and Detective Joshua Mertz conducted a thorough search of the premises. While no individuals were found on site, they did discover a compromised drop-box, typically used for check deposits, which the business reported as containing checks.
During the investigation, Detective Mertz noticed an individual matching the suspect’s description near Akron Grace Church. This individual, later identified as 45-year-old Michael Chubb, allegedly exhibited confrontational behavior during the investigative stop and was found in possession of the reportedly stolen checks.
Following his arrest, Chubb was transported to the WEPD station for processing and formal charging. Officer Sorensen charged Chubb with felony burglary, felony criminal trespass, and misdemeanor theft. Unable to post the set bail of $50,000, Chubb was remanded to Lancaster County Prison. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing at Ephrata District Court at a future date.
While these allegations are serious, it is crucial to remember that an accusation does not equate to guilt. Chubb is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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