Fugitive discovered behind attic access panel during state police search
SOUTH HUNTINGDON TOWNSHIP, PA — A West Newton man wanted on felony warrants was arrested after Pennsylvania State Police found him hiding in an attic with suspected methamphetamine during a search of a South Huntingdon Township residence.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, troopers were on routine patrol Thursday, July 16, when they recognized a vehicle known to be operated by Steven Sieckowski on Sutersville Road.
Police said they first encountered another individual outside the residence who also had active warrants. As troopers attempted to determine Sieckowski’s whereabouts, they learned two women inside the home were also wanted on active warrants.
While waiting for additional officers to arrive, troopers reported hearing furniture being moved and people yelling inside the residence.
The two women were detained but denied knowing where Sieckowski was located.
Troopers conducted a protective sweep of the residence because Sieckowski’s vehicle was parked outside and he was wanted on felony warrants. During the search, officers noticed an attic access panel inside a closet that appeared to have been recently opened.
Sieckowski was found hiding beyond the access panel. Police said they also discovered a plastic bag concealed in the attic insulation containing shards of suspected methamphetamine.
Investigators later executed a search warrant on Sieckowski’s truck, where they allegedly recovered additional suspected methamphetamine inside a Crown Royal bag, 85 small plastic baggies, a digital scale and two smoking devices.
Sieckowski is charged with additional narcotics-related offenses, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, in addition to his outstanding warrants.
Police also arrested Chad Ulander, Savannah Workman and Maxine Morgan on their active warrants.
The charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Key Points
- Pennsylvania State Police found a wanted man hiding in an attic behind a closet access panel.
- Troopers allegedly recovered suspected methamphetamine from the attic and additional suspected drugs and paraphernalia from a truck.
- Four people with active warrants were arrested at the South Huntingdon Township residence.
