BOARDMAN Police arrest six in connection with vehicle break-ins

Police are still investigating the thefts.
By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
BOARDMAN -- Township police say they've arrested six people suspected of being responsible in part for a rash of car break-ins.
The township has seen a high number of vehicle break-ins since November. Police say the thieves are like revolving doors -- when one is arrested another will quickly take his place.
Arrested Thursday: Two adults and a juvenile were arrested Thursday on Wolosyn Circle near Sheridan Road when a resident noticed the men peeking into cars parked in a carport. The juvenile was carrying a screwdriver and one of the men was carrying an 8-inch steel knife.
Both the knife and screwdriver are viewed as criminal tools by police when used to commit crimes such as breaking into or stealing cars.
Aaron Mrvelj, 18, of Sexton Street in Struthers is charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and criminal trespass. Jonathan Phipps, 18, of Fifth Street, Struthers, is charged with criminal trespass, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and carrying a concealed weapon for having the knife. The 17-year-old Matthews Road juvenile is charged with possession of criminal tools, criminal trespass and unruly by way of curfew.
Mrvelj and Phipps are free on bond. The juvenile was released into the custody of a relative. No court date has been set for the minor. The adults are due in Boardman area court Feb. 28.
Near bowling alley: Police also arrested three juveniles about a week ago, just past the Camelot Lanes parking lot on West Boulevard, after officers observed the teens -- two 17-year-olds and a 14-year-old -- drive around the lot slowly several times before leaving the lot.
Officers stopped the car and found pliers, screwdrivers, CDs, stereo equipment and other items. The boys were charged with receiving stolen property and possession of criminal tools.
Reports say undercover officers were watching the lot because of a high number of reported car break-ins in that area.
The boys were all taken to the juvenile justice center, but no court date has been set.
Police are working undercover and investigating other suspects in an attempt to put an end to the crimes, but they are urging shoppers and residents to take precautions. They say it is best to park in areas where there is a lot of lighting and to never leave packages and valuables visible in the car.
jgoodwin@vindy.com