Man facing theft, vandalism charges

An Elyria man was arreA 19-year-old Elyria man is facing numerous charges stemming from two early morning Oct. 8 incidents, according to a police report.

Colbee J. Martin is charged with four counts of criminal damaging, three counts of theft and a single count of possession of criminal tools.

At 1:47 a.m., Elyria police were dispatched to Planet Fitness, 1553 W. River Road, for reports of a male breaking into parked vehicles.

Six vehicles were broken into with the suspect making off with about $80 in cash, a pocket knife and miscellaneous clothing items, according to police.

In a second incident, police were called at 2:29 a.m. to Northwest Bank, 124 Middle Ave., after reports of suspicious activity.

The caller said a white male exited an orange truck and entered the building containing the ATM several times during a 10-minute period, police said.

The caller then heard a “banging sound” coming from the ATM.

Police discovered damage on all sides of the building, located broken pieces of glass, plastic, metal and camera lenses.

After a short vehicle pursuit, police apprehended Martin.

While searching Martin, officers uncovered $53 in cash and the pocket knife reported stolen from a vehicle at Planet Fitness, the report said.

Martin was charged in this incident with single felony counts of vandalism and breaking and entering and misdemeanor charges of failure to comply and operation in willful or wanton disregard.

Police said he admitted to the crimes and currently is in the Lorain County Jail.