Stolen Vehicle Returned to Owner, Thief Arrested

By Jessie Williams

A stolen vehicle was returned to its rightful owner, and a Westmoreland man was arrested on theft and drug charges last week, following a routine traffic stop.

 

According to Macon County Sheriff Mark Gammons, Sergeant & K-9 handler Joseph Woodard was on patrol on Monday, May 15, when he initiated a traffic stop on Leaths Branch Road.

The red Nissan pickup truck was pulled over for traffic violations and, upon speaking with the driver, sergeant Woodard was presented with false identification.

“Sergeant Woodard determined the driver was 20-year-old Kaleb O’Neal and proceeded to run the vehicle’s tag and VIN information,” said the sheriff. “It was determined that the vehicle being driven by Mr. O’Neal was reported stolen in the City of Westmoreland in early May of 2017.”

O’Neal was taken into custody, and a K-9 search of the stolen vehicle led to the discovery of prescription pills in a clear, plastic baggie and other narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

It was also determined that O’Neal had warrants out for his arrest in Sumner County.

The owner of the pickup truck was notified, and the vehicle was returned.