A Weirsdale man’s explanation for stealing a pickup truck was not complicated, according to deputies. He just did not like walking.
According to an arrest affidavit from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded in the early morning hours of Jan. 1 to a reported vehicle theft at a residence on Southeast 170th Avenue in Weirsdale. The victim reported that his silver 2005 Chevrolet Silverado, which had been parked on the property, was missing. He also told deputies the truck had previously been taken by the same individual.
The investigation later led deputies to Buck & Does General Store on Southeast Highway 42, where the stolen Silverado was located days later. Deputies observed the suspect opening the hood and attempting to jump-start the truck using a portable battery. Security footage reportedly showed the same individual driving the vehicle earlier that day and parking it at the store.
When questioned, the suspect initially claimed he was helping an unknown person start the vehicle, then said he had been driving it for “diagnostic reasons.” Deputies noted he could not provide a name or description for the supposed owner.
The explanation became simpler while the suspect was at Advent Hospital. According to the affidavit, he told a nurse the reason he stole the truck was because he does not like walking.
A search of the suspect’s backpack, retrieved from the vehicle with the owner’s consent, allegedly revealed the victim’s credit card, along with damaged identification and other cards in the suspect’s name.
The suspect was arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail without incident. He faces felony charges including grand theft of a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen credit card. Bond was set at $2,500.
