A Bellefontaine woman was arrested on Sunday, after being found in possession of stolen yard ornaments and other items reported missing from a nearby residence.
The incident began when police were called to a home on Kennedy Street in response to a theft report. The witness, who manages the well-being of his elderly mother, the victim, had previously reported items stolen from her property but chose not to pursue the case at that time. However, upon noticing further theft, including two black cauldrons and a wheelbarrow with a yellow rim, he identified similar items at a neighboring home.
Upon arriving at the location, officers found Christine Mead, 42, of Bellefontaine, in the backyard of her North Elm Street residence. Mead was observed handling items that matched the description of the stolen property. When approached, she was found with two light fixtures that the witness believed belonged to the victim. Mead initially claimed she was “loading up stolen property and evidence for the military,” and made several erratic statements.
Mead’s behavior included talking to herself and making bizarre claims about the victim’s house being an “abandoned murder house.” Despite repeated orders to stop moving the property, Mead continued to resist, attempting to bring the items into her home. Officers intervened and, after Mead resisted arrest, had to use a controlled leg sweep to subdue her.
She was subsequently handcuffed and transported to the Logan County Jail. During the investigation, the victim confirmed that items recovered from Mead’s residence, including those in a wheelbarrow and a container inside her home, were indeed stolen. The total estimated value of the stolen property is approximately $300.
The case has been forwarded to the Logan County Prosecutor’s Office, where charges are expected to be filed against Mead. She was lodged on theft from an elderly person, obstructing official business, and resisting arrest.
