Tamaqua police have filed charges against an accomplice who served as a lookout for the teen who was caught stealing firefighting equipment at last week's arson.

John Hindermeyer, 37, of 225 Pine St., Tamaqua, was charged with conspiracy to commit theft and corruption of a minor in connection with the theft, which took place last Wednesday morning.As firefighters were dealing with a smoky fire at 208 Biddle St. in Tamaqua, the teen took the opportunity to remove approximately $13,000 worth of equipment from firetrucks stationed on Water Street. Witnesses saw the teen remove tools, radios, radio charging stations and breathing apparatus from at least one firetruck. The items were then placed in a Jeep Cherokee parked in the backyard at 225-227 Pine St.Hindermeyer is the owner of the Jeep.He initially told police he knew nothing about the theft.During the follow-up investigation, police spoke with a witness who observed Hindermeyer walking his dog past the firetruck, telling the teen the firefighters were done fighting the fire.The teen then ran into the apartment building, which was quickly surrounded by firefighters and concerned residents. As he ran, he threw a duffel-style bag on the ground, an action that was also witnessed by bystanders.The teen was arrested and taken to the police station, where he was met by his father and a crisis counselor. He was then transported to a Pottsville hospital.Hindermeyer will be arraigned before District Judge Stephen Bayer at a date to be determined.