Man and teen charged in Laurel County theft

LONDON, Ky. (WTVQ) – An East Bernstadt man and teenager were arrested and charged in connection to the theft of a farm tractor, four wheeler and pistol, according to the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say they received a complaint Monday afternoon that a 16-year old boy had stolen the tractor, four-wheeler and pistol off Highway 578, just north of London, and that he had fired shots into the air.

Investigators say they first found the stolen tractor in the area.  They say they found the  four-wheeler, pistol and teen suspect off KY 1376, north of East Bernstadt.

Deputies say the teenager and a man, 26-year old Zakrey Roger Burritt, both ran from them, but were quickly captured.

Investigators say they asked Burritt at the time of his arrest if he had anything in his pockets that could harm law enforcement officers.  Deputies say he told them, “no.”  But, investigators say Burritt had a needle in his pocket.  As a result, he was charged with wanton endangerment 2nd degree – police officer is victim.

Deputies say Burritt was also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, public intoxication – controlled substances, receiving stolen property – firearm and receiving stolen property under $10,000.  He was taken to the Laurel County Detention Center.

Deputies say the 16-year old boy, whose name wasn’t released because of his age, was charged with assault 4th degree, theft by unlawful taking – firearm, two counts of theft $500 or more, but under $10,000, fleeing or evading police 2nd degree – motor vehicle, fleeing or evading police 2nd degree – on foot, public intoxication – controlled substances, operating a motor vehicle under the influence first offense and numerous other traffic violations.  Investigators say the teenager assaulted a man before stealing the tractor, four-wheeler and pistol.

The teenager was taken to the Breathitt County Juvenile Detention Center.