by Two 18-year-olds and a juvenile are facing multiple charges in Centre County after allegedly stealing two school district trucks and attempting to break into a downtown State College business. Police say the suspects also caused damage to several buildings in the borough.
The incidents occurred over the weekend and led to a police chase, vandalism, and multiple felony charges.
What Happened
According to State College Borough Police, the events began Saturday evening when Norman P. Ghaner, of Boalsburg, and Cameron M. Goodman, of State College, along with a 16-year-old student, stole a 2012 Ford truck from the State High parking lot.
Hours later, they returned and allegedly took a second vehicle — a 2005 Ford F-450 dump truck.
Surveillance footage captured the trio in action, and the 16-year-old later confirmed their identities to police.
Key Details
- Timeframe: Initial theft occurred around 6 p.m. Saturday. The attempted break-in happened just after midnight on Monday.
- Vehicles Involved: A 2012 Ford truck and a 2005 Ford F-450 dump truck, both owned by the State College Area School District.
- Location of Break-In Attempt: Smoke Valley, 116 E. College Ave., downtown State College.
- Other Damage: Windows were reportedly shot with a pellet gun on Logan Avenue and West Foster Avenue.
During the attempted break-in, Goodman and the 16-year-old shattered a glass door while Ghaner stayed in the truck. They fled when they thought someone saw them.
Later, police spotted the stolen truck and initiated a pursuit. The suspects abandoned the vehicle on Somerset Drive and fled on foot.
Reactions or Statements
Authorities said surveillance footage and digital tracking helped identify the suspects.
A parental tracking app used by the juvenile’s father placed him at the location of the vandalism during the time of the incidents.
Investigation or What’s Next
Norman P. Ghaner was charged with:
- Felony: theft, conspiracy to commit theft, receiving stolen property, conspiracy to commit burglary
- Misdemeanor: fleeing an officer, corruption of minors
- Summary offenses: conspiracy to commit criminal mischief, driving without a license
He was arraigned and released on $7,500 unsecured bail.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Cameron M. Goodman, facing similar felony and misdemeanor charges.
It is currently unclear if the 16-year-old has been referred to juvenile court.
FAQs
Who were the suspects in the vehicle theft?
Norman P. Ghaner, Cameron M. Goodman, and an unnamed 16-year-old juvenile.
What vehicles were stolen?
A 2012 Ford truck and a 2005 Ford F-450 dump truck owned by the State College Area School District.
Where did the attempted break-in occur?
Smoke Valley, located at 116 E. College Ave. in downtown State College.
What led police to the suspects?
Surveillance footage and a phone tracking app used by the juvenile’s parent.
What charges are the suspects facing?
Multiple felony and misdemeanor charges including theft, conspiracy, burglary attempts, and corruption of minors.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Theft and vandalism by two young adults and a juvenile over the weekend have led to multiple felony charges in Centre County.
With one suspect arraigned and another with a warrant out for arrest, police continue to investigate whether the juvenile will face court proceedings. This case underscores the importance of surveillance and digital tracking in modern law enforcement.
