The Marion Police Department said Wednesday that they had arrested two men accused of stealing numerous storm catch basin grates around the City of Marion. The investigation began on November 6, 2014 after police discovered the thefts. 10 or more grates had been stolen in the last week with an estimated loss to the City of Marion of nearly $2,000.
The grates are approximately 27” square and weight approximately 100 pounds. Officials said the safety issue this caused was of grave concern as children could easily fall into the opening of the storm sewer causing serious injury.
By late afternoon on November 7, 2014, the Marion Police Department, assisted by Marion Law Director Mark Russell, had identified two suspects and the vehicle that was allegedly being used in the thefts. Arrest warrants were issued for Brent W. Chevalier and Ray A. Martin, both 29-years-old of Marion.
On Tuesday, November 11, 2014 the suspect vehicle was spotted by Officer Jared Robinson, a traffic stop was conducted and a location for both Martin and Chevalier was obtained. Very soon after, officers located and arrested both suspects in the 1300 block of the Crescent Heights Apartments.
“With the quick and diligent work of the police officers involved, this will be one more case where the bad actors will be held accountable for their crimes and once proven guilty be sentenced to a significant term of jail, along with restitution for the victims of their crimes,” said Russell. “Working together successfully, we remain vigilant in protecting our neighborhoods.”
Police Chief Bill Collins continues to encourage residents to report suspicious activity by calling the Marion Police Department at 740-387-2525 or reporting this activity to the Marion TIPS Line at 740-375-TIPS (8477)
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