On 1/16/13, at approximately 4:26 AM, an officer with the Benton Police Department noticed a suspicious vehicle in the area of Americas Best Inn (1221 Hot Springs Hwy, near Waffle House). After checking the license plate on the vehicle it was determined that it had been reported stolen.

Officers then made contact with the suspects in the vehicle to ascertain more information. The three suspects were identified as William Looney, white male, age 29, Chelsea Smith, white female, age 21, and Tamara Hamilton, white female, age 21.

The man attempted to flee on foot from officers, but was apprehended at the scene without further incident. All three were taken into custody and were transported to the Saline County Detention Facility.

Looney is charged with Theft by Receiving, Escape, Driving on Suspended Drivers License, and Fleeing. Smith and Hamilton were both charged with Theft by Receiving.

Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to contact the Benton Police Department at 778-1171 or 315-TIPS. Individuals also may send an anonymous tip to CRIMES (274637) with the keyword BNPD in the body of the text or go to www.crimereports.com and submit a tip there.