John E. Powell, 50, of Findlay was indicted by a Wood County Grand Jury on Nov. 4 for theft in regards to
his actions on Sept. 12 during the Black Swamp Arts Festival.
According to the initial police report filed with the indictment, Powell was caught by one of the vendors
attempting to steal a necklace valued at $375. The item was returned immediately, but the police were
notified. Other vendors had also indicated theft with descriptions matching Powell.
When Powell was confronted by officers, he failed to produce receipts for merchandise totaling more than
$958. The items listed in the police report ranged from a flower metalwork sculpture worth $375 to a
spiced mug mat and tobacco, both less than $4. There were 14 different downtown stores or Black Swamp
vendors listed on the report. Other items valued at more than $100 were earrings priced at $128 and
leather shoes worth $145.
Powell is slated to be arraigned before Common Pleas Court Judge Reeve Kelsey on Monday at 1 p.m.