Blow and Behold: Deputy Nabs Yard Thief in Meth Sting
A heist of horticultural proportions unfolded on June 30, 2024. Deputy S. Harper responded to a call from William LaBree, who reported that Stephanie Fels had nabbed his Echo backpack leaf blower, valued at $600, from his yard.
LaBree, armed with video evidence and a keen eye for detail, told Deputy Harper he witnessed Fels placing the leaf blower into her silver SUV before she drove off. LaBree attempted a foot chase before hopping into his vehicle to pursue her to her home. Upon arrival, LaBree was met by Scott McFalls, Fels’ boyfriend, who promptly told him to leave. LaBree then called the authorities.
Deputy Harper’s investigation confirmed LaBree’s story, but attempts to contact Fels were initially fruitless.
Things took a dramatic turn on July 13 when Deputy Harper, armed with a probable cause affidavit, conducted a follow-up at Fels’ residence. The scene was set for a classic showdown: Fels’ silver Ford Edge, uniquely badged “STEPH,” was found running with the driver’s door open. A glass pipe, later testing positive for methamphetamine, was in plain view inside the car.
The plot thickened when Deputy Harper found Fels hiding under a blue tarp nearby. The ensuing search revealed more incriminating evidence, including a pink handbag with methamphetamine and Fels’ Florida driver’s license.
Fels, apprehended and sent to Advent Health Ocala before her journey to the Marion County Jail, now faces charges of burglary, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, and possession of drug paraphernalia. As LaBree breathes a sigh of relief, Marion County has one less leaf blower thief, and tarp-hider, on the streets.
