March 11, 2020
By News Director Jared Atha
A homeless man was arrested in Beckham County recently after he allegedly stole a pickup, and two dirt bikes. The suspect also allegedly tried to set the vehicles on fire in order to conceal his crime.
According to a probable cause affidavit, 21-year-old Clint Howard Putman is accused of stealing the 2019 Dodge Pickup from a dealership in Wichita Falls, Texas and also stealing two dirt bikes from a residence in Wellington, Texas.
A day later, Erick police were contacted by a resident saying that the suspect had come to her home, smelling like diesel fuel, and allegedly telling her that he was needing to burn a stolen pickup and dirt bikes. She stated that she refused to assist Putman. A short time later police were able to locate the pickup with the dirt bikes in the bed, backed into tall grass and trees near the home. The affidavit stated that it appeared that the pickup and bikes appeared to have been covered in diesel.
Upon further investigation and witnesses account, officers determined Putman was in Wichita Falls the day earlier, and had been seen driving the pickup.
According to the report, Putman was located in Elk City the following day and was arrested after attempting to outrun police.
Putman was charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle, fourth degree arson, two counts of knowingly concealing stolen property, and resisting an officer.
Putman is due in Beckham County courtroom on March 23.
