MOUNTAIN HOME - Using DNA from a discarded cigarette butt, Baxter County sheriff’s investigators arrested a 15-year-old youth in connection with the July 2012 vandalism at a church south of Mountain Home, said Sheriff John Montgomery.
Investigator Brad Lewis arrested the youth Friday on charges of breaking or entering and first-degree mischief, both felony offenses. Authorities turned him over to Baxter County Juvenile Services. Because the suspect is a youth, his court proceedings are not public record.
Montgomery said investigators were called to the Old Arkana Church at 10919 Highway 201 South, about 5 miles south of Mountain Home, on July 26, after receiving a call about a break in there. They found extensive damage throughout the church, he said. Tables and chairs were turned over, ceiling tiles were pulled down, and there were several holes punched and kicked in walls.
Powder from discharged fire extinguishers covered floors and pews, and an undetermined amount of cash was taken from the church, Montgomery said. Deputies estimated damage exceeded $15,000.
Montgomery said deputies questioned several juvenile suspects after finding two cigarette butts left at the church.
The state Crime Laboratory took DNA from the butts and matched it to a DNA sample from one of the youths, Montgomery said.
Arkansas, Pages 11 on 06/11/2013