Matthew Bugg, 31, of Bellefontaine, and Nikita Hamilton, 27, of West Mansfield, each were arrested on outstanding warrants Monday, April 22, by officers of the Bellefontaine Police Department.
Around 3:30 p.m., police on patrol observed a vehicle frequently used by the defendants to be traveling in the area of west Chillicothe Avenue near northbound Eaton Street.
Officers report that they are familiar with both individuals and were aware of potential arrest warrants. Police began to pursue the vehicle, but lost sight for a time.
Moments later, both individuals were observed on foot walking eastbound on west Columbus Avenue near Eaton Street.
Police confirmed the warrants and made contact with both individuals. Hamilton was lodged in the Logan County Jail on a warrant out of Champaign County for failure to appear. Bugg was arrested on Logan County warrants for failure to appear and failure to provide notice of a change of address.
Citation issued for fake license plate
Franklin Hurley, 46, of Russells Point, was cited for fictitious registration following a traffic stop executed shortly before 9:30 p.m., Monday, April 22, by officers of the Bellefontaine Police Department along Troy Road in the area of west Chillicothe Avenue.
Police on patrol in that area reportedly observed a Ford Taurus with extensive damage to its windshield and only one functioning headlight. A traffic stop was initiated and upon checking the vehicle’s license plate, the number returned to a 2000 Honda.
Upon making contact with the driver, Hurley told officers the vehicle had been through the tornado and that’s why the windshield was so damaged. He said he was aware that the plates did not match, and said they should return to either a Suburban or an Acura.
The driver said he was unsure how that particular plate got on the vehicle.
A search of the vehicle and its occupants returned no illegal contraband. Hurley was issued his citation and released from the scene. The vehicle was towed. Officers attempted to identify the owner of the license plate, but were unsuccessful.