Ohio has seen its fair share of unusual and baffling criminal activities this week. From claiming missing children to sandwich shop brawls, here are the top five stories that highlight some of the state’s not-so-brightest offenders.
Sandwich Shop Brawl
Location: Newark, Ohio
Date: July 25, 2024
A fight broke out at a local sandwich shop over a botched order. George Smith, 42, attacked the cashier after being handed the wrong sandwich. The altercation escalated, leading to significant property damage. Smith was arrested and charged with assault and vandalism.
Tractor Joyride Gone Wrong
Date: July 23, 2024
Location: Chillicothe, Ohio
A late-night joyride on a stolen tractor ended poorly for Billy Stevens in Chillicothe. Stevens, apparently intoxicated, stole a tractor from a local farm and took it for a spin through the town. His joyride came to an abrupt end when he crashed into a police car. Stevens was arrested for vehicle theft and DUI.
The Hamster Pants Caper
Date: July 22, 2024
Location: Springfield, Ohio
In Springfield, Matthew Pancake was arrested after breaking into a pet store. What made this crime notable was the discovery of four hamsters hidden in his pants. Pancake had managed to steal the animals during his break-in but was caught when he tried to leave the store. He faces charges of theft and animal cruelty.
Beer Heist Gone Wrong in Chillicothe
Date: July 25, 2024
Location: Chillicothe, Ohio
Mark Davis, 34, a would-be thief, made headlines in Chillicothe for his ill-fated attempt to steal a keg of beer from a local bar. Davis tried to carry the keg on foot but was quickly exhausted by its weight. Police found him sitting on the keg, unable to move or put up a fight. Davis was arrested and charged with theft and public intoxication.
The Disappearing Act
Location: Circleville, OH
Date: July 26, 2024
Sarah Mitchell, 27, from Circleville, attempted to shoplift a cart full of groceries by distracting the cashier with a fake story about a lost child. Unfortunately for Mitchell, the store’s security cameras caught her in the act, and she was detained by store security until police arrived. Mitchell was charged with theft and providing false information.
Ohio continues to prove that sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction. These stories not only highlight the missteps of would-be criminals but also serve as a reminder that crime doesn’t pay, especially when common sense is in short supply.