Detectives said they worked with Greene County detectives on identifying Wombles as a possible suspect in break-ins in December 2007 and early 2008.
The detectives then used a GPS tracking device placed on Wombles by a Greene County court to check location coordinates on burglaries.
Reports showed him within a few feet of residences on the dates and around the times the burglaries were believed to have taken place, according to reports filed with the seven charges — six counts of burglary and one of breaking and entering.
Defense lawyers initially challenged the reliability of the GPS evidence.
Judge Jeffrey Welbaum found him competent to stand trial.
But instead of going to trial, Wombles reached a plea deal with prosecutors, who agreed to recommend a 10-year sentence if he pleaded to all of the Miami County charges. Wombles pleaded no contest to the seven felonies and was found guilty by Welbaum. He told the judge he was on parole from the state of Kentucky at the time of the burglaries. Prosecutors said Kentucky officials will pursue a parole violation.
Before sentencing, Wombles said he wanted to apologize for his crimes. “I want to move forward with my life,” he said.
Three of the victims, all who own property in Union Twp., spoke before sentencing.
Rebecca Hoffman said her childhood home was ransacked and “valued mementos” taken in a burglary attributed to Wombles. She said the last 18 months “have been an emotional roller coaster” as a result of someone “violating” her home.
“What this man took away from us, and her, he should pay for it. The most that possibly could be done to him should be done,” said Hoffman’s husband, John.
Hans Markland said his farm property was the victim of a “violent” break-in causing fear for his family. He called for Wombles to receive a long sentence of hard labor since “he chose to damage and terrify people.”
Markland, who said he lost a large number of guns that have not been recovered, said Wombles should be forced to tell what happened to those guns.
Welbaum ordered prison terms totaling 10 years along with payment of court costs.
Wombles also pleaded recently in Greene County to burglary and other felony charges for break-ins there. He is scheduled for sentencing Friday, July 17, according to court records.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2292 or nbowman@DaytonDailyNews.com
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