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Police: Vandalism suspect reported car stolen in attempt to escape blame

Posted at 8:37 PM, Aug 27, 2014
and last updated 2014-08-28 11:35:55-04

COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah – Police say they were able to capture those responsible for causing thousands of dollars in damages to mailboxes and cars thanks to a tip from a citizen.

A resident in the area of 2600 East 6500 South observed individuals in a vehicle hitting mailboxes and parked vehicles with a bat, so they called police.

When officers responded, they were able to catch one of the four people who were inside the car, and information from that individual helped authorities locate the others.

Sgt. Corbett Ford of the Cottonwood Heights Police Department said one of the suspects attempted to cover up his tracks.

“About six o’clock this morning, the driver of the vehicle decided that he was going to try and find a way out of situation he had put himself in and played like he didn’t know what was going on, so he decided it was a good idea to report his vehicle was stolen,” he said.

Police arrested the driver, 18-year-old Jack Barrett. Officials said they are still looking for the other suspects, one of whom is a juvenile.

The damages are estimated to be about $2,500, but officials said that number could increase as a full accounting of the damage is taken.