Suspect In Vehicle Theft From Battle Creek Auto Dealership Caught

Authorities in Calhoun County have arrested a suspect in connection to a vehicle theft at a local dealership last week. The Calhoun County Sheriff's office says 50-year-old Jason Allen Stinson of Battle Creek is in custody at the Calhoun County Jail. He was reportedly arraigned Friday on several charges.

On Tuesday, July 3rd, a burglary occurred at Sunshine Toyota on Dickman Road at around 6:30am. Deputies say Stinson allegedly entered through the rear service door and stole a customer’s vehicle that was there to be repaired. At around 9:00am, the stolen vehicle was located and stopped on I-94 near Helmer Rd. by a Battle Creek City Police Officer.

A 31-year-old Battle Creek man, later identified as Christopher Deon Kelly, was arrested for outstanding warrants and possession of the stolen vehicle, but the original thief was still on the loose. Authorities released surveillance photos to try to identify the man. Detectives determined that the vehicle had been stolen and then Stinson is believed to have traded the car for narcotics.