Full Notification

Beginning in mid-October, Greene County Sheriff's Deputies started investigating a series of thefts from vehicles parked at Ritter Springs Park in northwestern Greene County; over a 2-week period, during the daytime hours, three vehicles had windows broken and items inside stolen. After further investigation, it was determined other similar thefts were occurring at parks in Taney County as well.

In Greene County, the suspects used stolen credit cards at various locations where Greene County Sheriff's Detectives obtained surveillance footage and videos which helped them to identify the suspects. A search warrant was executed at a home in the 2500 block of North Delaware Avenue in Springfield where 40-year old RYAN R. FITZHUGH, 30-year old MISTY D. CROAN and another 35-year old male were arrested and taken into custody.

"These three individuals have been linked to at least seven confirmed cases in southwestern Missouri," states Sheriff Jim Arnott. "The hard work and collaborative efforts of our Detectives, the Polk County Sheriff's Office, the Lebanon Police Department and Department of Natural Resources Park Ranger all aided in this investigation from identifying the suspects to apprehending them. As partners in law enforcement, we work together with a common goal in mind - to protect and serve our citizens."

The Greene County Prosecuting Attorney's Office has charged Fitzhugh and Croan each with:
1 - Felony count of 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle
1 - Felony count of Fraudulent Use of a Credit/Debit Card Device ($500 or more)
1 - Felony count of Receiving Stolen Property

At this time, the third person arrested with Fitzhugh and Croan has not been formally charged by the Greene County PA's Office. However, the investigation is still considered open and ongoing with possible additional victims.

*A charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Link to full media release:
http://bit.ly/2fMq81P