Smithtown, NY - November 30, 2015 - Suffolk County Police have arrested two men after they attempted to steal tires and rims at a car dealership in Smithtown yesterday.
Fourth Precinct Police Officer Frank Filiberto was on patrol when he observed a suspicious vehicle turn into the rear lot of King O’Rourke, located at 756 Nesconset Highway, at 2:30 a.m. The officer requested additional units and Officer Filiberto and Officer Vincent Liberato began to check the dealership lot. They observed the men removing lug nuts from a 2016 Cadillac Escalade. The men fled when they noticed the officers and were arrested a short time later by Canine Police Officer Michael Cassidy and his dog Thor.
Joseph Stoddard was charged with Attempted Grand Larceny, Auto Stripping and Possession of Burglar Tools.
Fourth Squad detectives charged Steven Hall, 38, of Lake Grove, and Joseph Stoddard, 51, of Lake Ronkonkoma, with Attempted Grand Larceny 3rd Degree, Auto Stripping 3rd Degree and Possession of Burglar Tools. They were held overnight for arraignment today at First District Court in Central Islip.
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.