by VDC staff

A 26-year-old Glover man was arrested early Sunday morning following a series of alleged vehicle-related crimes that began at a nursing home parking lot and ended with his capture at a nearby residence, according to Vermont State Police.

Troopers from the Vermont State Police Derby Barracks were dispatched at approximately 12:52 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25, to a report of a stolen vehicle at Union House Nursing Home on Glover Street, also known as Vermont Route 16. Police said a nursing home employee reported starting their vehicle to warm it up when they observed an individual enter the car and drive away toward Barton.

Troopers and inspectors from the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles responded to the area. While law enforcement was en route, additional reports indicated the stolen vehicle had crashed on Route 16 between Barton and Glover.

Police said that after the crash, the operator, Arnaud Gerlus, 26, attempted to forcibly take a vehicle from a passerby who had stopped to assist at the scene. That attempt was unsuccessful, and the suspect fled on foot.

The suspect was later located at a nearby residence, where troopers found him inside another vehicle. He was taken into custody without incident.

Gerlus was transported by Orleans Ambulance to North Country Hospital, where he was treated for cold-weather-related injuries.

Following medical clearance, Gerlus was processed at the Derby Barracks and charged with aggravated operation without consent, operation without consent, larceny, three counts of unlawful trespass into a motor vehicle, and leaving the scene of an accident.

Police said Gerlus was lodged at the Northern State Correctional Facility after failing to post $25,000 bail set by the court.

Gerlus is scheduled to be arraigned at 12:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, in Orleans Criminal Court.