KENT COUNTY, Mich. - Deputies told the Jannenga family that taking to social media was their best bet after their five kayaks and trailer were stolen in early July.
But, a Silent Observer tip ultimately led officers in the right direction. A tipster called in saying he had heard people bragging about stealing the kayaks and storing them at a home on Potters Road in Vergennes Township. Kent County Sheriff deputies visited the home and recovered two kayaks; the homeowner said they had been storing the kayaks for 24-year-old Eli Scoby and his wife.
Scoby pled guilty to a reduced charge of receiving and concealing property over $200 but under $1,000 Monday morning.
The sheriff's department was able to recover all five kayaks at various locations including in Ionia County, and the trailer was found on Scoby's property.
Scoby will be sentenced Oct. 8 and could face up to a year behind bars. The sheriff's department said this investigation is open and ongoing.
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