A man is behind bars after detectives discovered $80,000 worth of stolen items in two hotel rooms.
The Omaha Police Department says detectives from the Auto Theft Unit were investigating the theft of multiple vehicles that were located at the Motel 6 near 108th and L. Police detectives arrested suspects in connection with these vehicles. During the completion of this investigation, Detective Steve Barnes developed information regarding the location of a cache of additional stolen property and wanted felon, 31 year old Royce Whittamore. Whittamore had several outstanding felony and misdemeanor warrants.
OPD says detective Barnes and Detective Dose coordinated with the fugitive task force to formulate a plan to apprehend Whittamore and retrieve the stolen property. On August 20th, detectives set up surveillance and apprehended Royce Whittamore at the Motel 6. Police say at the time of his arrest, Whittamore was armed and had keys to a stolen vehicle on his person.
Investigators say a search of the two hotel rooms belonging to Whittamore resulted in the recovery of over $80,000.00 in stolen tools, multiple fictitious financial transaction devices and identification, an additional stolen vehicle, collectibles, backpacks, a rifle and priceless family memorabilia.
Police say a detailed investigation into the property recovered led to the return of a significant portion of the items recovered, including the return of many family items, which are irreplaceable.
OPD says the victims were not limited to the city of Omaha.
Whittamore was booked into Douglas County Corrections for charges of shoplifting, theft, forgery and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.