Richwood Township (trfnews.i234.me) — Bryce Anthony Barsness, 35, of rural Fergus Falls, and Steven Eric Johnson Jr., 41, of Moorhead, have been charged with felony third-degree burglary following their alleged involvement in the theft of antique collectibles from a property in Richwood Township, Becker County.
Details of the Incident
On February 1, a Becker County deputy responded to a report of stolen pottery bowls and other antiques from a shed near a residence in Richwood Township. The complainant, who did not reside at the property, provided trail camera images capturing two individuals entering the premises at night.
Subsequently, on February 7, the victim’s sister informed law enforcement about contacting local pawn shops to watch for the stolen items. One pawn shop reported that individuals matching the description had attempted to pawn goods resembling the stolen antiques.
Investigation and Evidence
Investigators obtained surveillance footage and license plate information, leading to the identification of Barsness through booking records. A search of Barsness’s phone revealed text messages between him and Johnson, discussing the sale of the stolen antiques. In these messages, Barsness emphasized the need to remain discreet during the thefts, stating, “we gotta just go in with a light hand though cause we don’t want to cause a lot of people to start remembering us.” The messages also detailed plans to cut a gate lock and attempts to break into a safe on the property.
Involvement of Steven Eric Johnson Jr.
Johnson acknowledged that the property had previously belonged to his mother. He admitted to visiting the property and removing items, including efforts to open an old safe located inside the residence.
Legal Proceedings
Both Barsness and Johnson are scheduled for their first court appearance on March 25 before Becker County District Judge Gretchen Thilmony. The Becker County District Court, located in Detroit Lakes, has original jurisdiction over all civil, family, probate, juvenile, criminal, and traffic cases filed in the county. Minnesota Judicial Branch
Did You Know?
-
Burglary Definition: In Minnesota, burglary involves unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a crime, such as theft.
-
Pawn Shop Protocol: Pawn shops are legally required to report items received, especially those suspected to be stolen, aiding in the recovery of stolen property.
-
Repeat Offender Impact: Repeat offenders often face more severe penalties due to their criminal history, aiming to deter future offenses.
I’m Chris Harper, and I’m reporting for TRF News.