What could have been a difficult search was much easier than anticipated for some Waverly police officers.

While Waverly police officers were coming back from processing a stolen car for evidence, they happened to find their thieves.

The officers were on their way back to Waverly when they saw two people hitchhiking on Highway 218.

The officers were flagged down by the two people and recognized they were Waverly residents.

After more investigation, Daryl Shea and Kole Brodigan, of Waverly, were arrested for Theft of a Motor Vehicle, which is a Class D Felony.

The Ford 500 was reported stolen on August 13 from a Wartburg student's driveway.

"It was a very odd way to start a Sunday off," Ben Weber, tells TV9.

The next morning, the Mitchell County Sheriffs Department was able to locate the car at a rock quarry east of Osage.

After locating the car was when they happened to find the two car thieves.

"I would prefer not to have the experience again, but I am thankful for Officer Stephens and Detective Troy who were able to make it as enjoyable as possible," Weber said. "I am just happy to be able to drive my car once again."

The two were transported to the Bremer County Jail and booked on the charges.

Charges are also pending for Shea in Mitchell County for possession of methamphetamine.