Man arrested in utility wire theft

FRONT ROYAL -- A tip about someone cutting wire from utility poles and placing it in his backpack on West 11th Street led to the arrest of a 20-year old man Jan. 26.

David A. Bowden of Strasburg Road was charged with misdemeanor property destruction and petty larceny, police said. Bowden and two companions were stopped by Officer J. Mumaw at about 9:30 p.m. after someone reported suspicious cutting of wire from utility poles, police said.

Police said Bowden confessed to the crime reported by the tipster after evidence of the theft was found in a backpack near him.

Bowden was taken to Warren County Jail and was being held without bond, according to police.