GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A Grand Junction man and a woman were arrested Monday after allegedly stealing a camper from Montrose County.
Chris Antonson, 43, was taken into custody at Love’s Truck Stop (748 22 Road) on charges of theft, criminal mischief, possession of a Schedule I/II drug, possession of a dangerous or illegal weapon, and drug paraphernalia. Kaydence Honer, 22, who was inside the camper with Antonson, was charged with drug and weapon possession.
Police said the theft was reported around 5 p.m. after a witness recognized the camper and Jeep as stolen. Officers matched the vehicles with photos from the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office. A high-risk stop was conducted with firearms drawn, and both suspects were ordered to exit the camper with their hands up.
During a search of the camper and Jeep, authorities reportedly found:
Methamphetamine (4.19 grams)
Hypodermic needles and other drug paraphernalia
Brass knuckles (illegal weapon in Colorado)
Antonson initially claimed he purchased the camper 10 days prior for $4,500, but conflicting statements between him and Honer raised probable cause that the theft was intentional. The camper showed obvious signs of forced entry, including pry marks, damaged panels, broken interior components, and graffiti. The total damage was estimated at $1,000, while the camper’s current value was between $39,500 and $52,500.
The Jeep was inoperable and required a tow, and the camper was returned to its owner. Antonson and Honer were booked into the Mesa County Detention Center. Antonson is scheduled for court on Wednesday.
