BEDFORD– Bradley Donald Stephen Carter, 35, of Bedford, was arrested on Tuesday, February 4, following an investigation into a stolen vehicle. Carter allegedly confessed, claiming a “spiritual” force instructed him to steal the truck.
The incident began earlier that day when the Bedford Police Department received a report of a stolen white Ford F350 from the 800 block of Norton Avenue. The vehicle’s owner reported the theft after being informed by an employee that the truck was missing. Security footage from a nearby business reportedly showed the truck being driven away the previous evening.
During the investigation, Detective Justin Dodd received an anonymous tip implicating Carter in the theft, stating the vehicle could be found at an apartment complex on 18th and O Streets. This tip and a previous incident involving Carter and a stolen vehicle in Heltonville led detectives to the 6800 block of State Road 58 East. There, they discovered the stolen truck parked in a driveway.
While processing the vehicle, Carter arrived at the scene. During a recorded interview with detectives, Carter allegedly admitted to taking the truck. According to the probable cause affidavit, Carter stated he was walking when he received a “spiritual” message to take the vehicle. He claimed he didn’t need to check for keys because “Jesus told him to take it,” he felt he shouldn’t be in trouble because the act was divinely inspired.
Carter was subsequently arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail on a charge of auto theft.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
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