LEBANON, Tenn. – A routine patrol by a Lebanon police officer led to the discovery of hundreds of pieces of stolen mail, fake identification materials, and credit card fraud equipment after a stolen vehicle was found in the parking lot of a local hotel.
On Friday, February 7, the officer spotted a Range Rover parked at the Avid Hotel, located along South Hartmann Drive. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the vehicle had been stolen from Missouri.
Authorities arrested two individuals, a 29-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman, both from California, who were inside the hotel and in possession of the stolen vehicle. During a search of the hotel room, law enforcement discovered hundreds of pieces of stolen mail from across the nation, along with materials used to create counterfeit identification and credit cards.
The Lebanon Police Department has not released additional details about the identities of the arrested individuals or the specific charges they face, citing that the investigation is ongoing. However, officials expressed gratitude for the quick response and diligence of the officers and detectives involved in the case.
“This is a great example of our officers and detectives working together to serve and protect our community,” a statement from the Lebanon Police Department read.
At this time, the department continues to investigate whether the operation is part of a larger network of stolen mail and fraud. Authorities have not disclosed whether further arrests or additional charges are expected.
The discovery marks a significant bust in Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to combat criminal activity both in the community and beyond.