********UPDATE 10/1/2023****************

The East Earl Township Police Department charged John F. Walter of Narvon with one count of felony 3 - Criminal Mischief, two counts of misdemeanor 2 - Criminal Mischief, and three counts of misdemeanor 3 - Loitering and Prowling at Night Time.  

It is alleged that during the overnight hours on August 26, September 19, and September 21, 2023, Walter used a nail to puncture the tires on sixteen vehicles in East Earl Township.  In total, Walter caused $13,845.37 in damages to the sixteen victims. 

An arrest warrant was issued for Walter's arrest.  He is scheduled to surrender on Wednesday, October 3, 2023.  

Walter was identified with assistance from the East Earl Township community.  The community provided doorbell camera images, which were posted to the East Earl Township Police Department CrimeWatch page.  The images lead to anonymous tips to the police department, which ultimately helped investigators identify and charge Walter with the string of tire punctures.  The department also recognizes the excellent police work, determination. investigative talents, and observation skills of Patrolman Gary Sensenig, in cooperation with the team of officers who were working to solve this crime.

These charges are merely accusations.  Walter is PRESUMED INNOCENT. 

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The East Earl Township Police Department is investigating a string of criminal mischiefs to vehicles that have occurred this week.  The suspect, shown in the attached Ring doorbell videos, has been puncturing vehicle tires during the overnight hours.  The crimes have all occurred in the area of Edgewood Dr, Cedar Ave, Poplar St, Brownstone Ridge, Shetland Circle, Matters Rd, Wallace Rd, and East Earl Rd.  The suspect appears to be male and at this time of this crime was wearing a shirt or sweatshirt with unknown writing, and carrying a backpack. 

We are asking residents in the affected areas to check your home security cameras for the suspect.

Anyone with information on the suspect's identify is asked to contact the East Earl Township Police Department at 717-355-5302, or by submitting a tip through the CrimeWatch website.

Anyone with information about the suspect’s identity and/or whereabouts is asked to contact the East Earl Township Police Department at 717-355-3502 or call 911 in case of an emergency. Persons with information can also call Lancaster City/County Crime Stoppers at (800) 322-1913.  Callers may remain anonymous and do not have to give their names.

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