Lancaster County man charged with using tow truck to steal antique farm tractor
YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) — A suspect has been arrested for allegedly stealing an antique farm tractor in York County.
The charges filed by Hellam Township Police accuse James Stetler, 48, of Lancaster, of using a work truck to steal a 1937 John Deere Model B farm tractor in February.
The tractor’s owner reported the theft to police, who shared surveillance video of a white flatbed truck on social media.
Fire breaks out at York County residence, investigation underway
The owner of a towing company contacted police saying he believed one of his trucks was involved in the theft and checked GPS records that showed the truck in the area of the crime, according to the complaint.
The owner told police that Stetler was the truck driver and that he would take the vehicle home with him, giving police his address.
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Police said they saw the stolen tractor and truck at Stetler’s home after they went to search for it. After entering the home, police were able to find Stetler who claimed that the tractor was sold to him for $150 on Facebook Marketplace but police said that he could not provide proof or the name of the seller.
According to an appraisal, it was discovered that if the tractor was sold for parts it would be worth between $2,250 and $2,750.
Stetler faces two felony charges of theft and receiving stolen property.
Stelter posted unsecured bail set at $15,000 and has a preliminary hearing scheduled for April 4.
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