On New Year’s Eve Sgt. Vernon Johnson of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office received information regarding the spree of car vandalism and burglaries that occurred in the city limits of Ava.
Deputy Johnson recovered two stereos, one that was stolen out of Salina, Kan. and the other taken from a residence on NE 2nd Avenue in Ava.
Sgt. Johnson contacted the Ava Police Dept. and was assisted by Officer Charles Bunch while continuing the investigation.
Mathew Weir
Sgt. Johnson arrested Mathew Weir, 17 of Ava, and subsequently a warrant was issued for two counts of 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle and 1st degree property damage, with bond set at $50,000. Weir is still incarcerated in the Douglas County Jail.
Sgt. Johnson and Officer Bunch are still recovering items that have been stolen and authorities anticipate additional charges will be filed as the investigation continues.
On Jan. 8, Douglas County Deputy Brad Loveless arrested Raymond Keith Baird, 42, of Ava, on an outstanding probation and parole warrant for absconding.
Baird was arrested at a residence on CR100 in Douglas County. At the time of his arrest, Baird was found in possession of various drugs and paraphernalia that field tested positive for methamphetamines and marijuana.
Baird is being held with no bond and additional charges are pending.
