A North Platte man is facing theft charges after he allegedly stole a computer and jewelry from a family member.

An officer with the North Platte Police Department responded to a reported theft in the 3100 block of Ioke at around 12:30 a.m., on Tuesday.

The victim reported that they suspected a family member, Joshua Richards, had stolen a laptop from their bedroom.

The victim told officers that they had spoken to Richards, and he indicated that the laptop was at one of his friend’s house.  They said they then contacted the friend, who stated that they hadn’t seen Richards in over a year.

On Wednesday, an officer made contact with Richards and, following an investigation, determined there was probable cause to cite Richards for misdemeanor theft.

Later on Wednesday evening, the victim again contacted police to report that Richards had stolen jewelry.

The victim said they feared that Richards would steal more items from them while they were at work, so they hid jewelry in a suitcase.  Upon returning home from work, the victim discovered that the suitcase was missing.

Another family member stated that they had seen Richards leaving the home with the suitcase.

An officer eventually located Richards driving in the 2000 block of East Phillip and conducted a traffic stop.

Investigator John Deal says the officer determined that Richards was driving under the influence of drugs.  Richards then voluntarily handed over drug paraphernalia and allowed the officer to search the vehicle.

During the search, the officer discovered some of the stolen jewelry.

It was determined that the value of the jewelry was over $500.

Richards was placed under arrest and charged with felony theft by unlawful taking and driving under the influence of drugs.

He was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.