Police: Bell ringer robbed by ex-ringer

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) - Three men were arrrsted in Springfield, Ohio, accused of robbing a Salvation Army bell ringer. Police said one of the thieves was a former bell ringer himself.

Thanks to a good samaritan who followed the suspects, police said they were able to catch up with Jonathan Downey, Ronald Finney, and Jason Owens within minutes.

Captain Stephen Carroll of the Springfield Salvation Army said Downey had just been fired from his position as a bell ringer two days before the incident.

"I was disappointed, but we're still here for them," said Carroll. "The Salvation Army is a place you come when you run out of options. Once they take care of their issues, we're still open to help them."

Salvation Army bell ringers are out in full swing for the season. Carroll said their needs have doubled this year and hope to raise $150,000. All the money stays in the community, and helps those facing tough times with food, fuel, and housing. The money is also used to help buy toys for children at Christmas.