Police investigating break in at Neosho church - KOAM TV 7

Police investigating break in at Neosho church

News release issued by the Neosho Police Department:

On 02-12-2012 Neosho Police Officers investigated a break-in at the Northside Baptist Church, located at 705 N. High St in Neosho. During the burglary several chainsaws and pole saws were stolen. During the course of the investigation a suspect was discovered to have attempted to pawn the items at a local pawn shop. Officers responded to the pawn shop however the suspect had fled the scene before the officers' arrival. Two chainsaws confirmed to have been stolen from the church were recovered. The suspect was located in the 400 block of Smith Ave, and initially attempted to elude officers. The suspect was taken into custody.

During the investigation a search warrant was requested and issued for the suspect's residence, located in the 400 block of Smith Ave. During the search of the premises several more chainsaws were recovered that were also confirmed to have been stolen from the church. The church used the chainsaws to help during major events, such as hurricane Katrina.

There are still several chainsaws missing, and the investigation continues.

The name of the 21 year-old male suspect is currently withheld pending to the filing of formal charges by the Newton County Prosecutor's office.

If anyone has any information involving this burglary, please contact the Neosho Police Department at 417-451-8012.

# # #