Elk City, OK – An Elk City man has been arrested and charged with knowingly concealing stolen property in connection to the theft of a motorcycle engine. The arrest follows an investigation that linked Knisley to the stolen engine, which was reported missing by its owner.
According to the Elk City Police Department, the victim identified the stolen engine at a location tied to 46-year-old Michael Joseph Knisley. The victim had previously reported the theft of several items, including the engine, from his residence during a move-in incident. Upon further investigation, the victim revealed that a neighbor had contacted him about the engine, and that he had learned about the engine’s location at a residence on North Main Street.
Authorities reported that Knisley and the victim discussed the engine, and a photo sent by the victim confirmed it was the stolen property. Officers noted that Knisley initially hesitated to photograph the engine, claiming it was hidden inside a house. A deal was then arranged between Knisley and the victim to recover the engine. After a meeting at the Elk City Police Department, officers confirmed the engine’s serial number matched the stolen item reported by the victim.
During an interview with law enforcement, Knisley’s statements regarding the engine’s origin appeared inconsistent. Initially, Knisley claimed he suspected the engine was stolen but said he only wanted to return it to its rightful owner. Later, he admitted to taking the motor from the residence on North Main, where it had been stored. Knisley also stated he had no intention of selling the engine.
The stolen engine has since been returned to the victim. Knisley was charged with one count of knowingly concealing stolen property. An outstanding warrant for Knisley’s arrest was issued on January 10.
