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Wellton man accused of theft and damage to be released

WELTON, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – A Welton man charged with theft and criminal damage in the Barry M. Goldwater Range appeared in court Friday and is expected to be released without charges.

The Yuma County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) arrested a man Tuesday following a theft and crime victimization incident in the Barry M. Goldwater Range.

YCSO was contacted about the incident by the U.S. Marine Corps Bureau of Criminal Investigation on February 21, according to a press release. During the joint investigation, both agencies identified the suspect as a 53-year-old Yuma man.

YCSO said authorities searched the residence and found the following items that were reported as stolen:

  • large generator
  • optima battery
  • military vehicle battery

The man is being held on two bonds totaling $1 million.

The investigation has been ongoing for more than a year, the sheriff's office said.

Also found were 20.95 grams of methamphetamine, 10 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, 0.8 grams of cocaine, other drug paraphernalia and multiple firearms. All items were seized.

After his arrest, the suspect was booked into the Yuma County Jail as he faces 41 felony charges.

Below are some of the prices.

  • Three crimes: theft, trespassing, and robbery
  • 18 charges of possessing a weapon during a drug offense
  • 2 charges of possession of dangerous goods
  • One count of drug violation and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The Sheriff's Office also shared that this was a joint effort with Marine Corps Criminal Investigation.

The man appeared in Welton Justice Court Wednesday morning.

Eduardo Morales provides further information.

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