This past week in Ohio, small towns saw a series of bizarre and poorly executed crimes. From botched escapes to ill-conceived heists, these five stories highlight the missteps of some of the state’s most inept criminals.
Thief Returns for Forgotten Loot in Gallipolis
In Gallipolis, Ohio, Jacob Miller, 29, broke into a local convenience store but forgot to take the cash from the register he had just pried open. Realizing his mistake, Miller returned to the scene of the crime only to find police waiting for him. He was arrested on the spot.
Man Butt-Dials Police During Robbery
In Piqua, Ohio, Robert Green, 29, inadvertently dialed 911 while attempting to rob a convenience store. Green had his phone in his pocket and butt-dialed 911, alerting dispatchers to the crime in progress. They heard most of the robbery on the recorded line. Police arrived quickly and arrested him.
Man Uses Taxi as Getaway Car
In Athens, Ohio, Robert Johnson, 40, robbed a local gas station and fled the scene using a taxi. Unbeknownst to Johnson, the taxi driver reported the suspicious behavior to the police, who tracked the taxi and arrested Johnson at his destination.
Burglar Falls Asleep on Job
In Marietta, Ohio, Michael Peterson, 34, broke into a local bakery late at night. Instead of making a quick getaway, Peterson decided to sample some pastries and ended up falling asleep in the storage room. Employees found him snoring the next morning and called the police. Peterson was charged with burglary and trespassing.
Drunk Driver Calls Police on Himself in Sandusky
In Sandusky, Ohio, Robert Mitchell, 45, had too much to drink and decided to drive home. Along the way, he became lost and called 911 for directions. The dispatcher quickly realized he was intoxicated and dispatched officers to his location. Mitchell was arrested for driving under the influence.