Sumter Sheriff’s Office arrest leads to cache of stolen guns

AMERICUS — Sumter County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to several entering auto calls on Lakeshore Ave, U.S. Highway 19 North and Parkers Mill Creek Road last week.

During the commission of the crimes, a dirt bike also was stolen.

Deputies spotted two dirt bikes leaving a local gas station in the city limits of Americus. One of the bikes matched the description of the one reportedly stolen. Deputies tried to make contact, and the drivers fled the scene.

ASO deputies, along with Americus Police Department, canvassed the area for the bikes and suspects.

During the search for the bike, deputies obtained video footage from the gas station at which the bikes were first observed. Information was obtained from a witness directing deputies to a residence on 1st Montgomery Street. The driver of the stolen bike was identified.

At the 1st Montgomery Street location, several bikes were located, including one matching the description of the stolen bike. A search warrant was obtained for the residence. The scene was secured by the Americus Police Department and Sumter Sheriff’s Office.

The residence was searched, resulting in the recovery of numerous firearms. some of which had been reported stolen.

Some of the recovered property has been returned to the rightful owners. At this time, one arrest has been made for theft by receiving stolen property. The suspect’s name is not being released for investigative purposes. Additional charges are pending, and other arrests are forthcoming.