COLUMBUS, Ohio – February 9, 2025 – Authorities arrested Willard Allison in connection with a theft and breaking-and-entering case following an investigation on Diehl Street in Chilliocothe
Theft Report Leads to Suspect Identification
The investigation began on February 8, when officers responded to a reported theft on Diehl Street. Bryan Lyle, the victim, reported that his Husqvarna chainsaw was stolen the previous night around 11:00 p.m. Surveillance footage showed a white male wearing dark clothing, black-rimmed glasses, and Under Armour sweatpants entering Lyle’s garage, taking the chainsaw, and searching the property before leaving.
Police requested photos of the suspect to be released in an effort to identify him.
Suspect Attempts to Evade Capture
The case took a turn on February 9, when officers investigating a burglary at 1076 Diehl Street received information from a witness, who claimed that a man staying at 1088 Diehl Street had attempted to sell him a Husqvarna chainsaw—matching the description of the stolen item.
As officers approached 1088 Diehl Street, two individuals exited the house, one of whom wore a ski mask but quickly retreated inside upon spotting law enforcement. Officers surrounded the house, and the homeowner initially denied the presence of the masked man but later agreed to retrieve him.
In the backyard, officers spotted a man matching the suspect’s description near a shed. When approached, the suspect ignored commands and re-entered the shed.
Arrest and Charges
Officers later identified the suspect as Willard Allison. After repeated verbal commands, Allison refused to surrender, leading officers to enter the shed, where they found him hiding under bicycle parts. He initially claimed he was injured and unable to move but was ultimately taken into custody.
A search of the shed uncovered a speaker matching the description of stolen property linked to another burglary investigation. During questioning, Allison denied involvement in the theft but admitted he had seen multiple chainsaws inside the house.
Police confirmed that Allison had multiple warrants for his arrest out of Chillicothe Municipal Court for failure to appear on drug paraphernalia and fictitious plates charges. He was also charged with:
- Breaking and Entering (related to the theft case)
- Obstructing Official Business (for refusing to comply with officers)
Following his arrest, Allison was transported to the Ross County Jail. Authorities are continuing their investigation into possible stolen property inside the house, and the Ross County Sheriff’s Office has taken over aspects of the case.
Investigation Ongoing
Police are working with Ross County Sheriff’s Office detectives to execute a search warrant for additional stolen items, including weapons reportedly inside the residence.
The case remains under investigation as authorities seek justice for multiple theft and burglary victims in the area.
