Report of a stolen vehicle out of Jasper County resulted in the arrest of two by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office April 3. Patrol deputies responded, observing that the vehicle had already begun to be stripped and parted out. While on scene, deputies discovered a glass methamphetamine pipe in plain view inside the garage.
Based on these observations, deputies contacted the Polk County Narcotics Division, which assisted in obtaining a search warrant for the residence.
During execution of the search warrant, investigators located methamphetamine between four grams and 200 grams inside the master bedroom, which was jointly occupied by Leah Pisaturo and Lawrence Simpson.
Also recovered from the bedroom was a firearm, confirmed to have been stolen out of Harris County.
“The quick actions of our patrol division were instrumental in locating this stolen vehicle and initiating the investigation that followed,” Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said. “Their attention to detail and proactive response not only led to the recovery of the vehicle, but also uncovered additional criminal activity. This is exactly the type of work our citizens expect and deserve.”
Pisaturo was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance, as well as theft of a firearm. Simpson was arrested with the same charges, but also theft of property and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
“The recovery of stolen property is always a priority for this office, and we’re proud to be able to return these items to their rightful owners,” Chief Deputy Anthony Lowrie. Cases like this highlight the importance of teamwork across divisions and our continued commitment to protecting the property and safety of the people in this county.”
