Clermont County, Batavia, Ohio - Investigators from the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office have been investigating the rising numbers of copper thefts involving air conditioning units from several structures over the past few months. “This has recently become an area of intensified activity for law enforcement operations” said Sheriff A.J. “Tim” Rodenberg. “The increases in value for copper and aluminum when combined with the sluggish economy have opened a new door of criminal opportunity” Rodenberg said. In many cases the materials taken are not marked or identifiable and the product is frequently sold by the pound.
“Investigator Greg Moran was the lead investigator assigned to many of the reports filed with the Sheriff’s office” said Chief Deputy Rick W. Combs. “Moran’s intense follow up and extra effort developed great leads which produced evidence that was provided to the Clermont County Grand Jury yesterday”, Combs said. “The grand jury indicted two brothers from Clermont County for a total of 90 felony charges between them” said Combs. “Over $100,000 is the estimate for damage caused by theft or damage to the air conditioning units. Most of units were large and located on the roof of the buildings” Combs said. Sheriff Rodenberg said the pair are accused of committing thefts in Batavia and Monroe Township; in Batavia Township units from Clermont Senior Services, YMCA, Christian Child Care, and Sam’s Food Mart, and Acreo Inc. in Monroe Township. “In addition, our office provided information and evidence to Union and Miami Township Police and Milford Police regarding thefts within their areas which may lead to further case closures and indictments” Rodenberg said. Listed below are those indicted with the charges. Both men are in the Clermont County Jail awaiting a bond hearing later today. Booking photographs may be obtained by contacting Mary Gregory at 732-7405. The investigation is continuing and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Chris W. Montgomery Breaking & Entering F-5 5cts
2755 SR 132 Vandalism F-4 20cts
New Richmond OH 45157 Theft F-5 20cts
DOB: 10-5-74
Eric W. Montgomery Breaking & Entering F-5 5cts
700 University Lane #111 Vandalism F-4 20cts
Batavia OH 45103 Theft F-5 20cts
DOB: 4-23-80