Tamaqua man facing charges in 2 incidents

Tamaqua police have filed charges against Edward Leonard Rivera. 30, of 214 Race St., Tamaqua, in connection with two incidents.

On Oct. 31 officers were contacted by a male who said Rivera had taken his rental car without permission.

The keys to the 2012 white Ford Fusion were taken from the victim's apartment on Pine Street at approximately 8 p.m. on Oct. 30.

Rivera was contacted at his home and told police he had permission to use the car to visit his brother in Carlisle.

He first went to Walmart to purchase a GPS unit, but when he saw the price, it was too expensive. Instead, he drove to Hazleton for a drink. When he stopped he noticed a couple having an argument. The male, who had a gun, then approached him and stole the car.

He admitted his memory was a bit "hazy" due to the Xanax he had taken.

The rental unit was equipped with a tracking unit and was located in Hazle Township, Luzerne County. When it was retrieved the car had considerable damage.

Rivera was charged with theft by unlawful taking, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and driving with a suspended license.

On Nov. 16, Rivera was picked up at 101 W. Rowe St., by a state constable. A syringe was found in his right front pocket. Rivera admitted the syringe was his and was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.