By Staff Report
A suspect is facing multiple charges following a burglary and stolen firearms investigation by the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded Wednesday, October 14 to a residence on Clemmons Road after receiving a report of a burglary and stolen firearms.
The victim told investigators that Douglas Doepel had been performing work around the residence. Upon returning home, the victim discovered several firearms were missing.
During the investigation, deputies received trail camera footage from a citizen that reportedly showed Doepel in possession of one of the stolen firearms. Investigators also learned Doepel had active warrants for failure to appear on a methamphetamine trafficking charge.
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office subsequently conducted an undercover operation to locate and apprehend Doepel. According to investigators, the operation resulted in Doepel’s arrest while he was in possession of one of the stolen firearms.
Deputies also reported finding methamphetamine in his possession at the time of his arrest.
Doepel was charged with armed burglary, grand theft of a firearm, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, and dealing in stolen property, in addition to the outstanding warrants.
Holmes County Sheriff John Tate credited community members for assisting investigators.
“Community involvement plays an important role in our investigations,” Tate said. “We appreciate citizens who remain alert and are willing to share information that helps our deputies recover stolen property and bring those responsible to justice.”
AMBER PATINO 