3 people arrested after 40 vehicle thefts

Video: Independent previous coverage of West Chester.

WEST CHESTER, Ohio (WDTN) – Three people, including two juveniles, were taken into police custody following 40 suspected vehicle thefts.

Each of these incidents occurred overnight on Wednesday, May 8, and began around 2:15 a.m

According to West Chester Township spokeswoman Barb Wilson, the suspects – each no older than 20 years old – broke into 40 vehicles parked in seven different hotel parking lots.

When police responded, the suspects allegedly fled in a vehicle. The ensuing chase ended when the suspect vehicle crashed into a guardrail, causing the three people to flee on foot.

With the help of multiple agencies, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Sharonville Police Department, Springfield Township Police Department and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the suspects were arrested.

Troopers also seized “two loaded semi-automatic handguns in the suspect’s vehicle and in a suspect’s pocket.”

The 19-year-old suspect is accused of obstructing official business and receiving stolen property. The two underage suspects are accused of receiving stolen property, obstructing official business and possessing criminal tools.