State police identifying stolen items
PUTNAMVILLE -- Details are still sketchy, but more information is expected later today on the Indiana State Police investigation into an apparent theft operation uncovered in Putnam County Wednesday.
As of Thursday afternoon, investigators had recovered several large pieces of equipment from the property of 55-year-old Thomas Skene, located at 105 E. U.S. 40, Greencastle, and they were storing them offsite at Curtis Wrecker Service.
Identified so far are: a 2002 Peterbilt semi tractor, a 2004 Chevrolet pickup and a 2006 mini-excavator.
The search began at around 4 p.m. Wednesday when state troopers served a warrant at the Skene property, according to ISP Sgt. Rich Myers and a press release issued Thursday.
The BannerGraphic tried to arrange to photograph the stolen items on Thursday but was told that since the investigators were still actively retrieving items from several locations, they would not be available to photograph until Friday morning or afternoon.
Police were also looking into several other vehicles and engines with missing or altered vehicle identification numbers, the trooper reported. Investigators are still in the process of confirming VIN numbers and license plates.
Meanwhile, the search for suspects continues. On Thursday afternoon, no arrests had been made, however, Senior Trooper Dan Hearon said, "this is an ongoing investigation and still very early."
Anyone with information concerning this investigation is asked to contact Hearon at the Putnamville Post by calling (765) 653-4114 or 1-800-225-8576.
Other investigating officers are Master Trooper Doug Perry and Trooper Michael Wood. The Putnam County Sheriff's Department is assisting in the case.