Grant County Deputy’s Vigilance Leads to Apprehension of Thief in Quincy Area

QUINCY – A vigilant Grant County Deputy’s routine patrol in the Quincy area on Monday resulted in the successful apprehension of a suspect involved in a series of thefts. The deputy’s sharp eye and dedication to duty played a crucial role in curbing criminal activities plaguing the local community.

The incident unfolded late in the evening on November 20, at approximately 11:30 pm. The deputy, who had been assigned the task of monitoring the area due to a recent surge in thefts, noticed a suspicious 1984 Dodge pickup truck towing a trailer on Rd 3 NW near Rd O NW.

The trailer, conspicuously lacking proper lighting and carrying a sizable propane tank, immediately raised the deputy’s suspicions. Acting swiftly, the deputy initiated a traffic stop to investigate further. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Leonard Knigge, a 59-year-old resident of George. Knigge claimed that he was merely transporting the items for a friend, but his explanation lacked crucial details.

Upon closer examination, the deputy discovered a freshly cut hose attached to the propane tank, providing a strong indication of potential criminal activity. Realizing the gravity of the situation, a Grant County Patrol Sergeant retraced the vehicle’s route and made a startling discovery. Tire tracks leading to a nearby potato storage facility at the intersection of Rd O NW and Rd 2 NW were found, suggesting a possible link to the theft.

Authorities wasted no time in contacting the facility’s owner, who promptly arrived at the scene. The owner confirmed that a trailer and propane tank had recently been stolen from his property. Furthermore, he positively identified the recovered items in Knigge’s possession as his stolen property, leaving no doubt as to the suspect’s involvement in the crime.

As a consequence, Leonard Knigge was swiftly taken into custody and slapped with charges of First Degree Theft. He was subsequently booked into the Grant County Jail, awaiting further legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the recovered trailer and propane tank underwent thorough documentation and were meticulously photographed to preserve evidence before being returned to their rightful owner.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with law enforcement authorities seizing Knigge’s vehicle for further examination. The diligent efforts of the Grant County Deputy and the collaborative work of the involved agencies have not only led to the successful resolution of this particular case but have also sent a strong message to potential criminals that theft and illicit activities will not be tolerated in the Quincy area.