Dwight Howard, 65, of Bellefontaine, was charged with auto theft and possession of drug paraphernalia following an investigation by officers of the Bellefontaine Police Department.
Around 7:30 p.m., Sunday, July 30, officers were dispatched to the area of 545 S. Madriver St. on a report of an auto theft.
The vehicle reportedly had been taken from out in front of a residence sometime overnight Saturday, July 29. As officers were investigating and collecting witness statements, the vehicle in question was observed traveling along Madriver Street near Cantwell Avenue.
Officers caught up with the vehicle, initiated the stop and made contact with the defendant, Howard, who claims to have had prior permission to drive the vehicle.
A search of the vehicle revealed a suspected crack pipe, marijuana bowl and roach, and a spoon with an unknown residue inside the front pocket of a gray backpack on the front seat.
The authorized owner of the vehicle told police those items were not in the vehicle prior to it being stolen.
Howard was lodged in the Logan County Jail.