A months-long investigation into a string of thefts in Auburn has led to the arrest of Steven Confer, authorities said. Confer, who was already wanted on a parole violation, was taken into custody on March 7 after attempting to evade police by hiding under a pile of clothing.
The case began on January 29, when a witness captured video of Confer stealing a pair of Air Jordan sneakers from an enclosed porch on North Lewis Street. The witness confronted Confer, who returned the sneakers before fleeing the scene.
Days later, on February 7, a cab driver reported potential larcenies at Home Depot involving a man he had transported from 42 North Fulton Street. According to police, Confer entered the store, filled a shopping cart with over $1,000 worth of tools, and was then driven to Pawn King in Auburn, where he sold the stolen items. Pawn shop records confirmed Confer’s identity, as he signed official documents swearing the goods were legally obtained. Asset Protection at Home Depot later verified that similar thefts had occurred on both February 7 and 8. The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office was called to investigate the thefts, while Auburn police focused on the fraudulent pawn transactions.
By early March, New York State Parole had issued a warrant for Confer’s arrest. On March 7, an Auburn police officer spotted him at 42 North Fulton Street. When the officer announced his presence, Confer attempted to hide, prompting a response from multiple officers who quickly established a perimeter. He was ultimately taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Cayuga County Jail.
Confer now faces multiple charges, including burglary, petit larceny, falsifying business records, and resisting arrest. He remains held pending arraignment.
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