The Village of Liberty Police Department has arrested two men following a multi-week investigation into a series of vehicle thefts in the village, authorities said.
Adam Awny, 42, and Paul Ellis, 39, both residents of Liberty, were charged in connection with multiple reports of parked cars being entered overnight and personal property being stolen, according to police.
Investigating officers received several complaints in April involving similar circumstances, including vehicles being entered and items taken. Police said the investigation determined two suspects appeared to be working together and stole a range of items from vehicles. Credit and debit cards were also reported stolen and later used locally in the village, according to police.
On April 19, officers located and arrested Awny on Chestnut Street in the Village of Liberty. Police said Awny attempted to conceal evidence and stolen property prior to being taken into custody. Officers recovered some stolen items, including jewelry and clothing, according to authorities.
Awny was charged with three counts of criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree, grand larceny in the fourth degree and tampering with physical evidence, all felonies. He was also charged with two counts of petit larceny, a misdemeanor.
Following Awny’s arrest, police continued investigating to locate the second suspect. On April 20, officers conducting foot patrol in the Main Street area located Ellis, who was believed to be the second suspect. Police said Ellis fled on foot into an alley before being apprehended after a brief pursuit.
Ellis was charged with two counts of criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree and grand larceny in the fourth degree, all felonies.
Both men were arraigned in Town of Liberty Court and remanded to the Sullivan County Jail to be held without bail pending future court appearances.
Village of Liberty Police Chief Steven D’Agata said the arrests were the result of sustained investigative work.
“This case is an excellent example of good old fashion police work resulting in holding offenders accountable,” D’Agata said. “Recognizing that a large number of Village residents had been victimized by having their personal property stolen, officers dedicated the time and energy to pursue every lead and ultimately identify and arrest those responsible.”
Image Credit: Village of Liberty Police