Investigation yields large amount of property stolen in Johnson and Miami counties

Authorities have arrested a man in connection with the theft of several hundred thousand dollars worth of property taken from locations in Johnson and Miami counties.

The Miami County Sheriff’s Office said it has recovered property stolen in Olathe and Overland Park as well as unincorporated areas.

The investigation began in November when deputies acting on a tip found a stolen trailer at a residence in Wellsville, Kan. They also discovered a large amount of stolen property, including parts for skid steer loaders, brush cutters, welding equipment, power tools, guns and a motorcycle.

The sheriff’s office said it had recovered about $200,000 worth of stolen property.

Last Friday, officials served a search warrant at the same property and found additional stolen property, including a lawn mower and power tools, according to the sheriff’s office.

The 22-year-old man wanted in connection with the thefts eluded deputies who tried to pull him over while driving on Saturday, but he later was arrested and booked into jail for possession of stolen property, illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and eluding police.

This story was originally published March 14, 2016 at 12:41 PM with the headline "Investigation yields large amount of property stolen in Johnson and Miami counties."