In a shocking turn of events, a man in Knox County, Maine, has been charged with multiple counts of theft, criminal mischief, burglary, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. The suspect, identified as David Atwood, 55, is accused of stealing a car from a Lowe's parking lot in Thomaston, as well as burglarizing a car rental and stealing a golf cart from the same property.

Suspect's Alleged Crime Spree Leaves Trail of Destruction

Brazen Car Theft from Lowe's Parking Lot

According to the Thomaston Police Department, the incident began on Friday when Atwood, who is described as a transient, allegedly stole a car from the Lowe's parking lot on New County Road. The authorities say that Atwood was identified as a suspect in the burglary of a car rental and the theft of a golf cart from the same property. Later in the day, Atwood reportedly returned the stolen car to the Lowe's parking lot, where he was seen leaving on foot.

Significant Damage and Missing Cash

The vehicle was returned to its owner, but not without significant damage, the police say. The owner also reported that cash was missing from the vehicle. This added insult to injury for the victim, who had already endured the trauma of having their car stolen.

Arrest at Local Restaurant

Atwood's alleged crime spree came to an end when he was arrested at a local restaurant. He was then taken to the Knox County Jail, where he is currently being held on the various charges.

Transient Suspect with Prior Criminal History

The fact that Atwood is described as a transient raises questions about his background and potential motivations for the alleged crimes. It's possible that he may have been struggling with homelessness or other personal challenges that could have contributed to his alleged actions. However, the authorities have not provided any further details about his history or circumstances.

Community Concerns and Calls for Increased Security

The incident has undoubtedly left the residents of Thomaston and the surrounding area feeling unsettled and concerned about their safety. Some may call for increased security measures in local parking lots and businesses to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Ongoing Investigation and Potential Consequences

The investigation into Atwood's alleged crimes is still ongoing, and it remains to be seen what the ultimate outcome will be. If convicted, he could face significant legal consequences, including fines and potential jail time. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for communities to work together to address issues of crime and public safety.