A seemingly ordinary burglary in Lakeland, Florida, quickly spiraled into a bizarre and complicated case involving a significant amount of Crown Royal whisky and a substantial property damage investigation. Matthew Von Glahn, 42, is currently facing multiple charges after being apprehended early Thursday morning following a series of break-ins.
It began with a reported suspicious activity at a resident’s barn on Crews Lake Drive around 12:35 a.m. Deputies discovered Von Glahn rummaging through the property. Initial tests revealed he’d consumed approximately half a bottle of Crown Royal whisky before being taken into custody. His subsequent resistance only compounded the already chaotic situation.
However, the incident didn’t end there. Approximately 1,000 feet away, authorities uncovered a second break-in at a residence under construction. This second crime involved the deliberate cutting of electrical wiring, resulting in an estimated $1,500 in damages.
Evidence strongly linked Von Glahn to both incidents, leading to additional charges including burglary of a dwelling and felony criminal mischief. Sheriff Grady Judd, speaking at the scene, stated, “It wasn’t just taking things. He was enjoying the scenery – and the whisky.”
Von Glahn is currently held at the Polk County Sheriff’s processing center and faces charges including burglary, petty theft, resisting arrest, burglary of a dwelling, and felony criminal mischief. The full extent of his potential sentence remains to be determined by the court. The case highlights not only the seriousness of property crimes but also the significant risks associated with impaired judgment.
What This Means for Consumers
While this incident doesn’t directly impact the availability or price of Crown Royal, it serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible alcohol consumption. Furthermore, it reinforces the need for robust security measures when safeguarding property.
Pros and Cons
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Pros:
The arrest serves as a cautionary tale and underscores the potential consequences of criminal activity.
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Cons:
The incident is a distraction from ongoing concerns about rising property crime rates in some areas. It’s a reminder that while a seemingly isolated event, it’s still a serious felony offense.
