Auto burglary suspect arrested

POST FALLS - A 21-year-old Spirit Lake man was arrested Tuesday as a suspect in three auto burglaries in Post Falls.

Charles Gutzman was allegedly involved with the crimes early Monday morning.

Officers saw a car driving without its lights on in the vicinity of Howell and Radiant Star roads on the west side of the city at 3:10 a.m.

"As an officer attempted to make contact, the male passenger and the male driver fled the vehicle on foot," said police Capt. Greg McLean.

Gutzman was later identified as the driver and owner of the vehicle and interviewed by police. Items from his car, including a stereo and radar detector, were identified as evidence from three auto burglary cases.

In addition to being booked into Kootenai County jail for three burglary charges, Gutzman was cited for obstructing police.

Police are seeking information on the male passenger as Gutzman did not cooperate with police. Those with information can call 773-3517 or leave an anonymous tip at 777-COPS or www.postfallspolice.com.