Burglars leave trail of evidence behind

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) - A trail of historic and rare coins led Springfield police to two accused burglars.

Police said the men broke into the Ohio coin on East Main street in Springfield, on Sunday night.

All officers had to do was follow the trail of coins, right to the suspect's pick-up truck. The truck took off as police got there, but they were able to nab the suspects after a traffic stop.

Police reports stated, they found more coins in the truck bed and inside the suspects pockets.

Scottie Jones and Philip Craig were charged with theft, breaking and entering, and vandalism for stealing more than $10,000 worth of coins, currency, and collectibles from the business.

"It looks like we had some visitors come in that wanted some of our material worse than we did," said the owner of Ohio Coin, Barry Brooks.

Police said the two men entered the business by shattering the window with a cinder block, and breaking the deadbolt.

"Its getting worse out there. Its like a warzone. I felt safer in Vietnam than I do out here sometimes," said Brooks.

While he was relieved he had his merchandise back, Brooks said he was not happy that the two men were not behind bars.

"It's upsetting, and from my understanding it's a fifth degree felony for breaking and entering, and I don't even know if they can give them any jail time right away, unless they got priors," said Brooks.

Both men pleaded not guilty and were released on their own recognizance. They have been told to be back in court next week, with their attorneys.