Pike County officials arrest man for car theft and drugs

An investigation into a stolen vehicle in Pike County has resulted in multiple charges against a Jacksonville man.

According to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, a 2011 Ford pickup truck was reported stolen in Perry on June 16 at approximately 5:38 p.m. The vehicle was found a short time later at Community Park in Chapin.

The investigation led officers to search a residence in the 100 block of West Main Street in Perry the following day, the report said.

John P. Baker, 46, of Jacksonville was subsequently arrested for burglary, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, delivery of methamphetamine and driving without a license.

Baker was held in the Pike County Jail.

During a hearing Thursday, Baker was assigned an attorney and his next court date was scheduled for July 2.