Thursday, June 28, 2018

Meth Abuser Victimizes Elderly Good Samaritan


 

 

On June 22, 2018, Investigators from the Levy County Sheriff’s Office arrested Jonathan Wayne Brotherton (10-21-83) on multiple counts related to theft and dealing in stolen property.  The investigation revealed that Brotherton and another family member had befriended an elderly neighbor (83 years old) in the northeastern part of Levy County.  The elderly victim gave Brotherton access to their residence for the purpose of doing laundry and even loaned several thousand dollars in cash to Brotherton.

The victim went out of town for an extended period.  Upon the victims return it was discovered that thousands of dollars in jewelry and cash had been stolen from the residence.  LCSO investigators were able to locate a small amount of the jewelry at multiple pawn shops.  Through follow up investigation, LCSO was able to establish Brotherton as a suspect and ultimately developed probable cause to arrest him for the crimes.  When investigators went to arrest Brotherton, he attempted to conceal himself in his residence and had to be forcibly taken into custody. 

Brotherton has been charged with three counts each of Dealing in Stolen Property and Giving False Information to a Pawn Broker.  He is also charged with Grand Theft and Resisting an Officer Without Violence.  He is being held at the Levy County Detention Center on a total bond of $180,000.00. 

Evidence gathered in the case indicates that Brotherton committed the crimes to support his addiction to Methamphetamine and possibly other drugs.  LCSO encourages citizens to remain vigilant when choosing to help those who claim to be in need.  A criminal background check can be obtained from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website for a small fee.  LCSO also has Crime Prevention Deputies that are available for consultation by calling 352-486-5111.