Blawnox police officer charged in alleged evidence room theft

A Blawnox police officer has been charged with stealing from his department, as well as the North Braddock police department where he was previously employed, according to state police.

Joseph Andrew Lynn, 34, of McKeesport is allegedly responsible for multiple thefts from both departments.

State police were investigating after cash was reported missing from the North Braddock Police Department evidence room, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

Investigators found evidence that Lynn has covered the surveillance cameras at the station for unknown reasons.

Lynn “was found to be responsible for another set of unrelated theft incidents while on duty in the official capacity as police officer for the North Braddock Police Department as well as the Blawnox Police Department,” the affidavit said.

Police have not made details about these incidents publicly available.

The evidence was brought before a statewide grand jury, which recommended Lynn’s arrest.

The North Braddock Police Department did not return a request for comment Wednesday morning. Blawnox Police Chief Pat Goodman declined to comment or provide information on Lynn’s employment history, directing questions to state police.

Lynn is charged with theft, evidence tampering, lying to authorities, obstructing the administration of law and misapplication of entrusted property.