Published: October 03, 2008 09:16 am         

Accused air conditioner thieves plead not guilty

Three men accused of stealing two heating and air conditioning units from a vacant home on ElderBush Lane Sept. 26, pleaded not guilty to the charges Monday in Laurel District Court.

Joseph Bunch, 33, of London, George T. Brock, 47, of London and Donald G. Combs, 26, of London, appeared in court on charges of theft by unlawful taking value over $300. Because the charge is a felony Judge John Chappell entered the not guilty plea on their behalf. Chappell set the case for a preliminary hearing at 11 a.m., Tuesday at which time the court will determine if there is sufficient cause to present the case to a Laurel County Grand Jury.

Sheriff Fred Yaden stated a call came in to his office reporting the theft in progress in southern Laurel County. Witnesses reported seeing the thieves load the two units onto a utility trailer and leaving the scene driving a red Jeep Cherokee.

Deputy William Jones responded and located the vehicle about an hour after the incident reportedly took place. With assistance from Detective Tommy Johnston, Deputy Tim Smallwood and Kentucky State Police Trooper Barry Blair, the suspects were taken into custody and lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.

Staff writer Dean Manning can be reached by e-mail at dmanning@sentinel-echo.com.