Two people suspected of being involved in numerous rural burglaries in Shelby County have been charged in connection with the crimes. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office says 52-year old John Piper and 31-year old Sara Grulke, both of Harlan, face two felony counts of Burglary in the 3rd degree and a felony count of Possession of an Offensive Weapon. Piper was being held in the Shelby County Jail on $35,000 bond.  Grulke has appeared before the magistrate and was released on her own recognizance.

Authorities say an investigation into the crimes which occurred over the past several months identified the suspects, who were specifically charged with a residential burglary in the 1800 block of Oak Road, and a second residential burglary in the 1100 block of Ironwood Road.

An investigation into the other burglary incidents remains ongoing.