BPD arrests Bloomington businessman for theft

After three months of investigation, the owner of “Balloons over Bloomington” turned himself into authorities Wednesday for cheating 24 customers out of rides.\nKevin DeVoe, 51, faces three preliminary counts of theft.\nAccording to a statement released by the Bloomington Police Department in June, officers were investigating a complaint from an out-of-town couple concerning a hot air balloon ride they paid for but never received.\nThe couple purchased a $300 certificate from “Balloons over Bloomington” in April 2006, but DeVoe canceled their ride. They rescheduled in May 2006, but their appointment was canceled again. DeVoe told the couple their ride would be rescheduled for 2007, but when the couple tried to contact him, the company’s phone was disconnected.\nDuring the investigation by BPD Det. Richard Hunter, DeVoe attempted to sell his hot air balloon on eBay. Whether or not he actually sold the balloon is unknown, BPD Sgt. Jeff Canada said.\nDeVoe is currently at the Monroe County Jail and is being held on a $5,000 surety bond and $7,500 cash.