Man Linked to Car Burglaries in Marion Following Police Chase, Crash

By Jeff Raasch, Reporter

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By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Aug 13, 2012 at 11:25 AM CDT

Story Updated: Aug 13, 2012 at 11:25 AM CDT

MARION, Iowa - New charges have been filed against a man allegedly stole a sport-utility vehicle and was involved in a police chase last month near Central City.

Jesse R. Flitsch, 24, address unknown, has been charged with second-degree theft and four counts of third-degree burglary. He allegedly tried to elude a Linn County sheriff's deputy in the stolen SUV on July 26 before running off a gravel road and crashing into a ditch.

Marion police Lt. Scott Elam said Flitsch is accused of stealing items from four unlocked cars before stealing the 2005 Jeep Cherokee from Wrigleyville bar at 1899 Seventh Ave. Elam said a laptop computer, two tablets, tools and clothing were taken from vehicles parked at the bar and in the 1100 block of South 26th Street, near where Flitsch had been staying.

Authorities found some of the stolen items inside the SUV when it crashed, according to a criminal complaint.

Flitsch, who was not seriously injured in the crash, remained at the Linn County Jail on Monday, in lieu of $29,500 bond.