A second suspect is in custody for allegedly refusing to cooperate with law enforcement’s investigation into the whereabouts of a suspect wanted in a Cincinnati-area stabbing incident.
Robert Sturgill, 30, of Russells Point, was charged with obstructing justice after he allegedly impeded law enforcement’s investigation into the whereabouts of a 28-year-old Kentucky man wanted for attempted murder.
Michael Bowlin, of Berea, Kentucky was apprehended in Logan County on Saturday, Dec. 7, following a coordinated effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Bowlin was located in the Indian Lake area after a cell phone ping indicated his presence. The suspect had active warrants issued by the Cincinnati Police Department. Officers from the Washington Township Police Department discovered a vehicle associated with Bowlin in the 7200 block of Delaware Drive, where he had been staying.
Through their investigation, officers determined Bowlin was not at the residence but learned he was with Sturgill. Officers contacted Sturgill, informing him of Bowlin’s warrants and the potential for criminal charges if he refused to cooperate. Despite repeated warnings, Sturgill refused to disclose their location.
Further leads directed officers to the 200 block of North Main Street in Lakeview. When approached, Sturgill was located, but Bowlin attempted to evade arrest by fleeing on foot and climbing onto the roof of a building. With the assistance of the Ohio State Highway Patrol Aviation Unit, Bowlin was taken into custody without further incident.
A search of the Delaware Drive residence uncovered crucial evidence, which was turned over to detectives from the Cincinnati Police Department for further investigation.
Sturgill was arrested and charged with obstructing justice for his refusal to assist officers in locating Bowlin. Other individuals present during the operation cooperated with authorities and are not believed to have been aware of Bowlin’s wanted status.
Washington Township Police, the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Russells Point and Bellefontaine police departments, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol Aviation Unit assisted.
“This was a collective effort by Logan County law enforcement agencies, and I am incredibly proud to serve alongside each officer, deputy, and trooper involved,” a Washington Township Police said in a statement. “Logan County is safer because of their dedication and teamwork.”
Bowlin was transported to the Logan County Jail and lodged on his outstanding warrants.
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