Bethany Police Search For Suspect In Stolen Check Scheme

Police are looking for a suspect who has written stolen checks to purchase expensive lawn equipment.

Bethany Police acquired surveillance images of the suspect during an incident at Bronco Lawn Equipment near NW 50th and Rockwell.

The suspect is seen using a stolen checkbook, a fake ID, and giving a well-crafted story to purchase a commercial blower, edger and a chainsaw.

"The guy is extremely good... and he's a pro," Brian Kessler, owner of Bronco Lawn Equipment said he has dealt with thieves before but never face-to-face. “The ID looked legit and it turned out to be fake, unfortunately for us."

Kessler said he was initially suspicious of the customer, but everything seemed to check out with the store's check policy.

The customer claimed he was a ranch hand at S&S Ranch in Hinton. He claimed his boss gave him the checks to pick up equipment. The suspect provided the store with a driver's license that was later confirmed to be fake.

"Nobody likes to be stolen from," said Kessler, who lost $1,400.

Investigators said the same suspect has carried out the same scheme at several businesses taking a total of $30,000 in lawn equipment.

"This is probably his job. He's probably reselling it, putting it on craigslist or maybe selling it on the streets," said Bethany Police Detective Mark Girten.

Girten said everyone should be on the lookout for the suspect.

"My advice is that if you are going to buy some lawn equipment and it looks too good to be true, it probably is," Girten said.

Girten said with surveillance images of the suspect it's just a matter of time until he is caught. Kessler is counting on it.

"We would definitely like to see him caught and justice served," he said.

If you have any information in the case or recognize the suspect call Bethany Police (405) 789-2323.