Virginia, IL — A Beardstown man is facing a felony charge in connection with the theft of a walnut tree and copper wiring, as part of a months-long investigation by Cass County authorities.
The investigation led to the arrest of five individuals on theft and drug-related charges. The case began with a search of a residence at 305 Redwood Lane on Thursday, where stolen items from the Bluff Springs Township Shed were recovered. Shawn D. Bentley, 29, of Beardstown, was arrested on charges of burglary, possession of burglary tools, and possession of stolen property.
Rebecca C. French, 39, of Beardstown, was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Other arrests included Jose O. Crespo-Rodriguez, 39, and Tiffany R. Pascal, 44, both of Beardstown, on various charges, including burglary, possession of stolen property, and aggravated battery to a police officer.
Kevin P. Lakin, 28, of Beardstown, was arrested on a felony theft charge related to the walnut tree and copper wiring theft. A warrant is still pending for one other suspect.
Bentley, Pascal, and Lakin were taken to Schuyler County Jail, while Crespo-Rodriguez was held in Menard County Jail.