2 Bowling Green residents arrested in connection to string of thefts

FRANKLIN, Ky. – Two people have been arrested after police say an investigation connected them to a series of thefts and drug activity.

The Simpson County Sheriff’s Office says it was contacted Monday by a homeowner that said a woman had tried to steal her welcome sign. Authorities say the homeowner yelled at the woman, who was later identified as Kristin Stanton of Bowling Green.

Stanton dropped the sign and fled in a GMC pickup truck with a set of large tires in the back, deputies say.

Deputies say they stopped the vehicle in Franklin, Ky. and located Stanton, as well as a passenger identified as Joshua Escue of Bowling Green.

Authorities say an investigation linked them both to a string of thefts and illegal drugs. Deputies believe the stolen items came from mailboxes and rented storage units.

Stanton and Escue were arrested and taken to the Simpson County Jail.

Stanton is charged with trafficking in a controlled substance, first offense, possession of a controlled substance (hydrocone), first offense, two counts of possession of of a controlled substance (drug unspecified), possession of drug paraphernalia, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, first offense (opiates), third-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, first offense (drug unspecified), tampering with physical evidence and theft by unlawful taking.

The investigation is ongoing.