2 linked to more than 50 thefts

HOWARD CITY, Mich. (WOOD) - Two people from the Howard City area have been arrested and face charges connected to more than 50 break-ins in Montcalm and Newaygo counties.

Reports of the thefts started coming in January, according to Michigan State Police. Among the items stolen and recovered were iPads, Xboxes, PlayStations, quads, motorcycles, a go-cart, bicycles, televisions, and a safe. The owners of most of these items have been identified, authorities say.

The thefts -- which range from larcenies to home invasions -- occurred in western Montcalm and eastern Newaygo counties at all hours, MSP said.

Police say that in some instances, residents were at home during the thefts and some homeowners even confronted the suspects.

A joint investigation of the Howard City Police Department, Montcalm County Sheriff's Department and MSP developed suspects. Surveillance led to the arrests of two suspects responsible for most of the thefts.

Authorities have not yet specified exactly what charges the two suspects will face. Their names are being withheld pending arraignment.

One victim told 24 Hour News 8 his house was burgled three times and he is happy there were arrests.

"I was ecstatic," Michael Miller said.

Miller said he was on edge all summer.

"Sleepless nights," he said. "Getting hit over and over again is a rude awakening."

He thought the first burglary was a fluke, but after he lost about $15,000 worth of belongings including an iPad, a laptop and a camcorder, he started to take matters into his own hands.

"Used to grab the gun," he said.

And now he has installed a security system in case another rash of thefts happens.

"Next time, we'll be ready for them," he said.

Miller told 24 Hour News 8 the suspects live less than a mile from him.

He claims he saw some of his stolen stuff on Craigslist. Police wouldn't confirm that, citing an open investigation.

Authorities also believe more people may be connected to the crime spree, meaning there could be more arrests.