Man charged after allegedly stealing brother-in-law’s Jeep

VERMILION – Christopher Branscum, 39, of Vermilion, was charged with a felony Thursday after he allegedly stole his brother-in-law’s vehicle.

According to a report from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Branscum’s brother-in-law told deputies that he gave Branscum permission to take the vehicle to and from work. The brother-in-law, the report states, told deputies that one week before Branscum took the vehicle and never returned. According to the report, he said that Branscum texted him two days later stating that he was going down to Florida. The brother-in-law added that he had attempted to call and text Branscum, but with no response, the report states.

According to the report, deputies attempted to contact Branscum; however, they also received no response.

A warrant has been issued for Branscum. He is charged with Theft of a Motor Vehicle (F4).