Wayland City Police have apprehended a 34-year-old Grand Junction man in connection with the Aug. 12 complaint of tampering and destruction of gas and electrical meters in the strip mall on Reno Drive.

Authorities responded to the complaint at about 4 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 12, during the second wins and rainstorm. Witnesses said they noticed a suspicious condition involving gas and electrical meters, and opened service panels.

“It was obvious that this was caused by individual(s) and not storm damage,” Chief Mark Garnsey said. “Numerous electrical meters had been pulled from their service panels to dangerously expose electrical wiring to the elements, as well as the gas that was being discharged in close proximity to the electrical wiring and environment.” Despite this dangerous condition, no fires or other damage occurred as a result of the vandalism.

Evidence technicians and a detective from the Michigan State Police, Wayland post, processed the scene. Wayland Police canvassed the area and developed a person of interest that evening.

Shayne Nagel, 34, from Grand Junction was arrested Aug. 13 and afterward was arraigned on charges of two counts of malicious destruction of utility property, a five-  year felony and/or $5,000 fine each; one count of assaulting/resisting/obstructing a police officer, a two year felony, and/or $2,000 fine, habitual offender – fourth offense notice.

Authorities remind readers that all suspects and/or arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.