Police: Burglary suspect tied to other Lima cases

8/5/2004

LIMA, Ohio - Lima police have linked a West Virginia man, who was arrested while trying to break into Grothaus Barber Shop, with 10 other burglaries in the last few weeks, police said.

John B. Howerton, 30, was being held in the Allen County jail on $5,000 cash bail on charges of possession of criminal tools after his arraignment in Lima Municipal Court.

He was arrested just after midnight Monday.

Police said they linked Mr. Howerton to burglaries at two churches, a beauty salon, lamp shop, and other businesses. They said they are investigating whether he was involved in more burglaries as well.