CHELSEA DAVIS
Courier Staff Writer
OTTUMWA —
One of the two men charged with stealing TNA belts in August has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge.
Joel Ryan Luke, 33, pleaded guilty to fifth-degree theft and was sentenced to two years probation and fines during his arraignment last week.
The Heavyweight World Championship Belt, valued at $6,000, as well as a replica, valued at $400, were taken during a TNA Impact Wrestling event on Aug. 18 at Bridge View Center.
Following an investigation into the theft, Luke was arrested and charged with second-degree theft.
Police later took Forrest Courtney Jamison, 39, into custody, and charged him with accessory to a felony in connection with the theft of the belts.
Jamison’s arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday.
Both Luke and Jamison originally pleaded not guilty to their respective charges.
