MACOMB COUNTY

Facebook tips help catch suspect in donation jar theft

James David Dickson
The Detroit News

Roseville — Social media tips helped police arrest a 28-year-old man who is accused of stealing from an elementary school’s donation jar at a Roseville Rams Horn restaurant, said deputy chief Donald Glandon.

Cory Gebhart, who police say has no fixed address, was picked up “without incident” Wednesday night on Van Dyke, Glandon said. Facebook tips helped police identify Gebhart as a suspect and, ultimately, locate him.

“We’ve had a few of those over the years, where the public helps us find someone,” Glandon said.

On Thursday, Gebhart was given a $10,000 cash-or-surety bond by Judge Marco Santia in 39th District Court. Gebhart is accused of larceny from a building, a felony. His next court appearance will be on Feb. 17. He is currently in the custody of Roseville police, but will be moved to Oakland County Jail later on Thursday, Glandon said.

On Jan. 27, at about 6 a.m., a donation jar for Dort Elementary School was stolen from the Rams Horn on the 29200 block of Gratiot in Roseville, just north of 12 Mile. There was about $100 in the jar.

jdickson@detroitnews.com