Faribault Camper Squatter Facing Felony Charges

The 36 year old Faribault man arrested in Lonsdale after being found inside a camper is facing felony charges.  Jacob Mello allegedly told authorities he had been living inside the camper for several months.

Mello has been charged with 1st degree Damage to Property and 3rd degree Burglary.  His bail was set at $1,000 with conditions.

The camper was being stored on the Rice County Fairgrounds in Faribault.  The owner picked it up last Saturday and took it home.  When he unlocked the door the interior was in disarray and there was a bad odor.  He immediately called authorities. A  Lonsdale Police Officer and Rice County Sheriff's Deputy were dispatched to the home.

Officers found Mello in bed and transported him to a hospital for medical attention.  He was later arrested by the Faribault Police Department.

Faribault Police Chief Andy Bohlen says his officers were familiar with Mello.

Faribault Police Officer Lance Ulrich told KDHL the camper may be totaled and over $1,000 damage has been found in 2 other campers stored on the fairgrounds.

The initial call last Saturday (April 25) at 7:32 a.m. to Faribault Police concerned a report of burglary and criminal damage to property with several campers and RV's found to have been damaged and ransacked with items missing.

Officer Ulrich says windows were smashed, entry had been made and miscellaneous property had been stolen.  So far there have been six victims regarding these damages and thefts.