Westmoreland County couple accused in rash of vehicle break-ins
State police say there may be more victims out there
State police say there may be more victims out there
State police say there may be more victims out there
A Westmoreland County couple is facing nearly 4,000 charges connected to a rash of vehicle break-ins last fall in Westmoreland County.
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Charges were filed against John Hughes, 30, and Shelby Stamm, 26, last week.
According to the criminal complaint, the break-ins happened in multiple Westmoreland County communities last fall and police were able to identify at least 27 alleged victims. Police said the couple targeted unlocked vehicles in wealthier neighborhoods throughout the county.
"He specifically went and googled places that had rich neighborhoods," Trooper Steve Limani said.
According to police in Florida, Hughes was arrested there late last fall and is accused of similar crimes. That investigation led state police to Stamm's home in Youngstown Borough where police said more than 150 stolen items were recovered. Police said the items were worth thousands of dollars.
Among the stolen goods, police said they recovered four firearms that had been sold to a third party.
Police said the couple targeted unlocked vehicles at night, and during the investigation, Stamm admitted to helping Hughes. According to police, a lot of the stolen items were returned, but police do believe there may be more victims that never reported having their vehicles entered.
Hughes is being held in Florida. Stamm has not been arraigned on the charges and no court date has been set.