BOARDMAN Suspect in Vindy box thefts

The suspect was expected to surrender later today.
By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
BOARDMAN -- An arrest on a theft charge has led officers to the man suspected of stealing dozens of coin-operated newspaper boxes around the area.
John J. Lysowski, 35, of Blue Ridge Drive, Poland, was arrested Sept. 27 and charged with misdemeanor theft and aggravated trespassing. Police said he was seen stealing shrubs and other plants from outside a township doctor's office. He is due in court Nov. 1 on those charges.
Police said the man already was a suspect in the newspaper box thefts and they planned to test his dark blue Ford pickup for paint scrapings that might prove he had been taking the machines.
One officer, who was familiar with Lysowski's family, said Lysowski confessed before any tests needed to be done. Lt. Jack Nichols said Lysowski took officers to where about 20 of the machines had been hidden, but police think there are about 30 machines still unaccounted for.
Nichols said the man was incensed because some people were using slugs, a small metal disk in the shape and size of a quarter, in place of money to buy newspapers, therefore taking away from his stolen booty.
To turn himself in: Authorities said after the confession, Lysowski was released and expected to turn himself in for booking on the new charges today. Police said should he not turn himself in later today, he will be picked up. He could be arraigned on the theft charges as early as tonight.
The Vindicator has been offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for the theft of the machines. Company officials said more than 50 Vindicator boxes have been stolen. Several boxes from other newspaper companies have been taken as well.
Will press charges: Alan Bowlby, Vindicator circulation director, said the company will press charges against any responsible parties. The machines are said to be worth about $500 each and typically weigh about 70 pounds.
Police said the machines, most of which were stolen during daylight hours, were taken to a deserted area where the locking mechanism was destroyed and the money was taken. The machines were typically dumped in an empty field.
jgoodwin@vindy.com