Christopher Phelps (left) and Anthony Leonard (right)

Stolen firefighting gear recovered in Grants Pass

Christopher Phelps (left) and Anthony Leonard (right)

GRANTS PASS, Ore. – Firefighting gear that was stolen from Rural Metro Fire was recovered by police. Now, two people are behind bars in connection with the case.

On July 29, Rural Metro firefighters said a complete set of structural and wildland firefighting gear was stolen in the area of Lincoln Elementary School.

“Unfortunately this type of thievery occurs this time of year by those not only seeking cash,” Rural Metro Fire explained, “but by those looking for recognition they did not earn, or to impersonate a fire official to commit illegal activities.”

Firefighters posted a public plea for help locating the bags.

After the theft, a Grants Pass pawn shop alerted police after a man, identified as Anthony Leonard, allegedly tried to pawn some firefighting equipment which was later determined to be a portion of the equipment stolen from RMF. Leonard was later placed under arrest.

The remaining equipment was found in the possession of Christopher Phelps. He was arrested at Schroeder Park.

After the equipment was recovered by police, firefighters said, “Thank you to all who helped share the word and locate the offenders.”

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