MATTHEW STEELE

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By JOSH RICHARDSON

PDT Managing Editor

Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a Portsmouth man and charged him with aggravated burglary after a Franklin Furnace resident said two males forced entry into his home.

Scioto County Sheriff Marty V. Donini said several 911 calls received Wednesday indicated the incident happened at 20 Ison Road. A caller to 911 mentioned that shots had been fired, although Sheriff’s Capt. David Hall said deputies could not substantiate that claim.

Deputies and detectives responded and were advised that two men had forced entry into the residence. Once inside, according to the release, the suspects kicked open the bedroom door and demanded money and a wallet from the victim. The victim told deputies a fight took place inside his residence before the suspects left the area in a vehicle. According to the report, the suspect vehicle was struck with a large rock, knocking the window out and causing damage to the vehicle. The victim suffered minor injuries from this alleged assault.

Detectives said they found the vehicle at a residence in Franklin Furnace, but the suspects had already fled the area.

Donini said detectives received information that a suspect was at a Wheelersburg residence. Deputies responded, where they arrested Matthew C. Steele, 34, of Portsmouth. Steele has been charged with aggravated burglary, a second-degree felony, and probation violation. He is being held without bond and was scheduled to appear Friday in Portsmouth Municipal Court. Donini said more charges will be presented to a Scioto County grand jury on a later date.

Hall said 20-year-old Hank C. Steele of Portsmouth also is suspected in the burglary and the Sheriff’s Office has issued a warrant for his arrest. Hall said Hank and Matthew Steele are brothers.

Anyone with any information concerning this burglary is asked to call Detective Jodi Conkel at 740-351-1091. All calls will remain anonymous.

Josh Richardson may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 244, or jrichardson@heartlandpublications.com.