On Friday night, January 12, 2025, at approximately 7:40 p.m., Texarkana Police Department officers were alerted to the theft of a Kubota skid steer from a construction site on Summerhill Road. Witnesses reported the equipment being driven southbound, prompting Officer Conner Melton to respond quickly.
Within minutes, Officer Melton spotted the skid steer rolling past Grim Stadium, driven by 39-year-old Joseph VanMeter. Upon questioning, VanMeter claimed a "buddy" had rented the equipment and gave him permission to use it. However, when pressed for his friend's name, VanMeter was unable to provide any details.
Police contacted the skid steer's rightful owners, who confirmed they did not know VanMeter, nor had they authorized anyone to use the equipment outside of normal hours.
VanMeter was arrested on-site and charged with Theft Over $30,000. He was transported to the Bi-State Jail, where his bond was set at $50,000.
The stolen skid steer was returned to its owners, and the case remains under investigation. Texarkana Police remind the public to report suspicious activity immediately.
