Theft investigation leads to felony charges

A local man faces multiple felony charges after a continuing investigation by Columbus Police Department detectives into an auto theft.

Brian K. George, 25, 3054 Rosewood Lane, was arrested Nov. 12 on a preliminary charge of auto theft and taken to the Bartholomew County Jail, said Sgt. Matt Harris, Columbus Police Department spokesman.

After more investigation, George now faces preliminary felony charges of auto theft, credit card fraud, forgery, check forgery, burglary and theft, Harris said.

During the investigation, detectives received a search warrant for George’s home, which was searched by members of the Columbus Police Department SWAT team Nov. 12, Harris said.

Columbus Police Department Sgt. Tom Foust said George’s arrest was the culmination of efforts from several officers and detectives focusing on repeat offenders in Columbus. The community also played a role in providing tip information in locating and arresting George, Foust said.

George is being held in the Bartholomew County Jail in lieu of $607,500 bond, jail officials said.

Columbus police are continuing to investigate other cases that may be linked to George, including some that other police agencies have reported, Harris said.