Arrest Made in Wave of Vehicle Thefts

Portsmouth police say a Fall River, MA, man is now in custody in connection with a wave of vehicle thefts that struck the community last month. 

Steven Couto, 20, was arrested recently in Fall River as a "fugitive from justice." Couto was arrested after Portsmouth police issued an affidavit arrest warrant for his arrest on charges of four counts of larceny over $1,500. 

Police are now awaiting Couto's return to Rhode Island following an extradition hearing. Couto may also face additional charges in MA, police said. 

Portsmouth police have also issued an affidavit arrest warrant for a second man, who is believed to be connected to the thefts. 

A total of six vehicles were reported stolen from Sept. 14 to 20. 

The vehicles were taken during the overnight hours from McIntosh Drive, Quail Road, Ash Street, Galley Lane, Stage Coach Road and Harbor View Road. The stolen vehicles were all unlocked at the time with the keys left inside the vehicle.