Warrant Issued for Theft of Leased Property in East Earl Township

Authorities seek Charles Jayron Newswanger for conspiring to sell stolen generator

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:06pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a padlock, its metal surface reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A close-up of a padlock conceptually represents the theft of leased property, exposing the harsh realities of such crimes.New Holland Today

The East Earl Township Police Department has issued an active arrest warrant for Charles Jayron "CJ" Newswanger of New Holland, Pennsylvania, for charges of Theft of Leased Property and Criminal Conspiracy. Authorities allege that on September 4, 2024, Newswanger conspired with two other individuals to lease a Honda generator from a local hardware store and then sell the stolen item to a pawn shop.

Why it matters

Theft of leased property is a serious crime that can have significant financial and legal consequences for both the perpetrator and the business that was victimized. This case highlights the importance of businesses carefully tracking their rental equipment and working closely with law enforcement to apprehend those responsible for such crimes.

The details

According to police, Newswanger and two unidentified co-conspirators leased the Honda generator from JB Zimmerman Ace Hardware in East Earl Township on September 4, 2024. Authorities allege the group then sold the stolen equipment to a local pawn shop, depriving the hardware store of its rightful property.

  • The alleged crimes occurred on September 4, 2024.
  • The East Earl Township Police Department currently holds an active arrest warrant for Newswanger.

The players

Charles Jayron "CJ" Newswanger

A resident of New Holland, Pennsylvania, who is wanted by police for Theft of Leased Property and Criminal Conspiracy charges.

JB Zimmerman Ace Hardware

A local hardware store in East Earl Township, Pennsylvania, from which Newswanger and his co-conspirators allegedly leased and then stole a Honda generator.

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What’s next

The East Earl Township Police Department is actively searching for Newswanger and urging the public to come forward with any information about his whereabouts.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of businesses closely monitoring their rental equipment and working closely with law enforcement to address property crimes. It also serves as a reminder that individuals accused of crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty.