By Joe Bachman

A Wisconsin Rapids man has been charged with theft and felony firearm possession after his alleged efforts to help police.

According to reports on Sept. 29, an officer was dispatched to a residence on Wazeecha Ave. regarding the theft of a rifle and some coins. The complainant reported finding a ladder set outside, leading to a window with a busted screen used for entry. The complaint suspected the alleged thief to be 33-year-old Jared Schelvan.

Police made contact with Schelvan later that day, and he informed officers that he left “flags” in the home so the victims knew it was him. Schelvan also stated that he needed the rifle to gain “true credibility” to to help police get rid of drugs in the area.

Schelvan is a convicted felon, and was not to be in the possession of a firearm.

Authorities found that Schelvan attempted to hide the firearm in the ceiling of another residence. Police would later find that Schelvan even tried selling the rifle.

If convicted, Schelvan faces up to a total of 16 years imprisonment and up to $60,000 in fines. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 26.