Greenfield Car Thief Said He Was 'Cold': Report

GREENFIELD, WI -- A Greenfield man has been arrested and charged after police say the man stole a running car from out of a resident's garage in early January.

According to court records, Thomas M. Tesch, 38, has been charged with burglary, and taking a vehicle without the owner's consent. Because Tesch is being charged as a repeat offender, he may face additional penalties if he is convicted.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Milwaukee County, officers were called to a home on the 3800 block of S. 58th Street in Greenfield just before 7 a.m. on Jan. 9 on a report of a car theft.

Reports stated that Tesch walked into the open garage of a home on that block, and took a 2004 Acura which was running with the keys in the ignition.

According to police, on Jan. 14, officers were called to a report of a neighbor dispute on the 6100 block of W. Howard Ave. between two neighbors. In that dispute, a neighbor took exception to the actions of the man, later identified as Tesch.

Investigators say Tesch parked a 2004 Acura on the lawn so it was closer to his door so he could unload items. When officers investigated, they saw that the car didn't have a license plate. When officers ran the car's VIN number, they discovered it had been stolen.

According to reports, officers searched the stolen car and located numerous stolen items belonging to the vehicle's owner.

According to reports, Tesch was questioned by police, and admitted stealing the car from the apartment complex. In the criminal complaint, Tesch admitted to taking the car on the morning of Jan. 9 because he was feeling cold.

Milwaukee County Jail Photo