PARKERSBURG, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Parkersburg man is facing multiple charges after police say he stole a student’s bicycle from Parkersburg High School in May and later threatened to kill a police officer and his family following his arrest in August.
According to the Parkersburg Police Department, School Resource Officer Patrolman R.W. Bargerstock was notified on May 21, 2025, that a student’s bicycle had been stolen from the front rack at Parkersburg High School. Surveillance footage showed a man in an orange shirt, jeans, and dark shoes removing the bicycle and riding off toward 19th Street.
Bargerstock identified the suspect as 26-year-old Levi William Barker, a man he had prior dealings with and recognized from previous arrest photos. School officials confirmed Barker had no reason to be on school property that day. The student and guardian valued the stolen bicycle at approximately $100 and stated they wished to pursue charges. Police requested warrants for petit larceny and loitering on school property.
On August 30, while on routine patrol, an officer spotted Barker walking in the 1100 block of Lynn Street. Knowing Barker had two active warrants, the officer attempted to stop him. Police say Barker fled on foot and was seen reaching for a kitchen knife in his back pocket before continuing to run. He was eventually captured and taken into custody without further incident.
While secured in a police cruiser, Barker allegedly threatened the officer, saying he would burn the officer’s house down and kill his family.
Barker was transported to Parkersburg Police Headquarters, where officers say he remained combative and non-compliant. He is now facing additional charges, including retaliation against a public official.
