Sheriff Deputies Capture Thief During Early Morning Spree in Eldersburg

Police said they captured a Marriottsville man Friday morning who is accused of stealing a vehicle and $6,000 worth of hunting rifles and equipment in Eldersburg.

Allen James Harmer, 21, of Marriottsville, was arrested and charged early Friday morning by Sheriff’s Deputies in the theft of a Toyota RAV 4 and approximately $6,000 of hunting rifles and other hunting equipment taken from unlocked vehicles parked at the condominium complex along Rudy-Serra Drive, police said. 

Just after 6 a.m., Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call from a resident reporting the theft of his Toyota RAV 4, which was left in the parking lot unlocked with the keys inside. Shortly afterwards, a second call was received reporting the theft of hunting rifles and equipment, according to a sheriff's news release. 

As deputies investigated, they said they observed the vehicle traveling along Rudy-Serra Drive and stopped the vehicle.  The lone occupant, police said Harmer appeared intoxicated and was taken into custody without incident.  At least 12 other vehicles were entered and rummaged through overnight, police said. 

The rifles and hunting equipment were located and returned to the owner. 

According to the previous year’s Crime in Maryland Report, serious property crimes account for 85 percent of all crime in Carroll. 

Sheriff’s Office investigators estimate the theft of electronics, tools, cash and other valuables from unlocked vehicles, sheds and homes account for almost three-fourths of those crimes, according to a news release. 

Residents are reminded to remove valuables from sight, roll up car windows and lock car doors when leaving their vehicle unattended.  Also, residents are asked to report unfamiliar vehicles and persons roaming neighborhoods and parking lots during the late evening and early morning hours. 

Harmer was taken to Carroll County Central Booking where he’s awaiting a bail review hearing before the District Court Commissioner on charges of auto theft, theft, driving under the influence of alcohol and driving on a suspended license. 

The Sheriff’s Office investigation continues and police said additional charges are pending. 

Anyone with information about either of these incidents is asked to contact Detective Steve Rager of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office at 410-386-2577, or the toll free anonymous TIPS Hotline at 1-888-399-TIPP (8477). 

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