Police arrest man charged in local crime spree

CHAMPION, Ohio (WKBN) – Police arrested a man who is facing a slew of charges for a string of local break-ins and other crimes last year.

On Wednesday, Warren police arrested Harold Michaels, 50, who had warrants out for his arrest on several charges.

Champion Police Chief Larry Skaggs said Michaels was wanted for a crime spree in Champion Township, including three different break-ins. He said Michaels broke into garages and stole thousands of dollars worth of tools and other items. Skaggs said Michaels also stole a vehicle, which he used to transport the stolen items, and he then set the vehicle on fire.

Skaggs said investigators were able to identify Michaels as the suspect through electronic surveillance techniques.

Michaels faces felony charges of arson, breaking and entering, theft and theft of a motor vehicle for the crimes that happened around November 2023, according to court records.

He appeared in Warren Municipal Court on Thursday, pleading not guilty to the charges, and is set to appear in court again for another hearing on Tuesday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WYTV.