UPDATE: Wisconsin Theft Spree Suspects Arrested In Clermont

Fayette County authorities have released more information on the arrest of two people on charges connected to a string of thefts in southwest Wisconsin.

According to sheriff's officials, 27-year Alex VanErp of Fairbault, Minn., was tased and taken into custody Friday morning after attempting to flee a deputy at a business in Clement. Authorities said VanErp was in possession of a stolen 9mm handgun and a large amount of methamphetamine when he was arrested.

VanErp was booked into the Fayette County Jail on the following charges:

• Dominion/control of a firearm by a felon (Class D felony)
• Carrying weapons without a permit (aggravated misdemeanor)
• Interference with official acts while carrying a firearm (Class D felony)
• Possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver more than five grams of methamphetamine (Class B felony)
• Possession of drug paraphernalia (simple misdemeanor)

Also arrested was 19-year-old Aliza Bruley of Faribault, Minnesota on the following charges:

• Possession of marijuana-first offense (serious misdemeanor)
• Possession of drug paraphernalia (simple misdemeanor)

Sheriff’s officials said they received a report from Wisconsin on Friday about a stolen trailer, two lawn tractors, a 9mm pistol and other items. After Prairie du Chien police publicly released pictures of the suspects and identified them, Fayette County authorities received a tip that a pickup truck and stolen trailer were spotted in Clermont, near the Brick City Inn.

While deputies were on their way to investigate, sheriff’s officials received a 911 call from Bodensteiner Implement in Clermont stating that the male suspect was in the store, attempting to buy something. Sheriff’s officials said when a deputy arrived, VanErp attempted to flee. That's when he was tased and taken into custody.

According to authorities, Bruley was a passenger in the pickup truck VanErp was driving.

Fayette County sheriff’s officials said other charges are pending against VanErp and Bruley, pending numerous investigations by other agencies in southwest Wisconsin. Those agencies include: the Prairie du Chien Police Department, Richland Center Police Department, Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Hillsboro Police Department and Black River Falls Police Department.