Man Arrested in Salem for Swiping Independence Church Bus

The man is suspected of stealing a church bus and possessing methamphetamine.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore.) - Salem Police say an alert citizen spotted a suspicious person sitting in a car in an apartment complex in the 800 blk of 25th St SE and called police shortly before 3:00 AM this morning.

Salem Police responded and contacted 23-year old Abraham Vela of Independence. Birr says Vela provided officers with a false name and was arrested for Giving False Information.

"In plain view in the vehicle were bank deposit bags. Located inside the vehicle were checks and other items stolen from the First Baptist Church, 1505 Monmouth St, Independence."

Salem Police asked Independence Police to go check the church and it was discovered that the church had been burglarized and that the church's bus had been stolen, according to Birr. The bus was subsequently recovered in Salem.

Salem Police Department charged Vela with Giving False Information and Possession of Methamphetamine. Independence Police will have additional charges. The investigation is continuing by Independence Police.