
A series of thefts affecting communities in Van Buren and Kalamazoo Counties has seen a significant development with a recent arrest. According to a press release from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office, a 40-year-old man from Kalamazoo County, whose name has not been disclosed, was arrested following a months-long investigation conducted by local deputies and state troopers. The arrest occurred after the suspect's image circulated on social media.
On Thursday, deputies received an anonymous tip about the location of the suspect's vehicle. After surveilling the residence, they attempted to intercept the suspect, which led to a foot chase and his capture as he tried to enter a neighboring pole barn through a window. He was wearing the same clothes he had worn during a previous burglary captured on video. Following his arrest, authorities executed a search warrant at the property and found items linking him to multiple storage unit break-ins and residential burglaries.
Among the recovered items was sports memorabilia, previously reported as stolen from an army veteran's storage unit. The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office confirmed that much of this memorabilia was returned to the veteran's family. Sheriff Abbott highlighted the importance of security surveillance systems in assisting with criminal investigations and emphasized the role of community involvement in maintaining public safety.
The agencies involved are continuing to build their case by reviewing the evidence. As the investigation progresses, the suspect faces additional charges of resisting arrest and drug possession. Further findings will be sent to prosecutors in both counties for consideration of potential additional charges, as stated in the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office release.