Two men connected to a series of auto burglaries have been arrested by Tampa Police, bringing a portion of a multicounty theft ring's exploits to an end. According to a news release from the City of Tampa, 30-year-old Joshua Connor Murdock and 37-year-old Aaron Alderman were taken into custody by officers who were actively patrolling the local area.
Caught with a plethora of stolen goods, Murdock was also incriminated by surveillance footage that depicted him, aided by his distinct tattoos, using stolen credit cards. While the two were reported to have been caught in a silver Hyundai Elantra in the 4300 block of W. Spruce St, an unregistered tag adorned their vehicle, bringing them to the attention of officers. A subsequent check confirmed the car's stolen status and Murdock's violent resistance to arrest, having struck an officer in the chest, while Alderman was compliant.
During a search, police recovered a loaded stolen handgun in Murdock's backpack, sealing his face with charges reflective of his criminal portfolio. Murdock is facing a slew of felonies that include Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Resisting Arrest with Violence, in addition to weapon and auto theft-related charges. Alderman's charges, while not as extensive, include Grand Theft Auto and Burglary.
The silver Hyundai Elantra, discovered lodged with an unregistered tag, was just the tip of the iceberg. Upon searching the vehicle, authorities discovered not only the handgun but also methamphetamine, adding a possession charge to Murdock's ever-growing list of accusations. The items recovered from the scene included stolen license plates and additional property that had been reported as stolen. While Alderman rode along, his charges remained limited to Grand Theft Auto and Burglary of an Unoccupied Conveyance. Both suspects have since been transported to Orient Road Jail.
