FORT SMITH (KFSM) – Investigators with the Fort Smith Police Department have located what they believe is the van used in a prior theft case involving $25,000 worth of missing tires and rims and arrested a case suspect, according to a news release.
Brandon A. Jones, Jr., 29, was taken into custody after a warrant was issued for his arrest, the release states.
Authorities said they believe the van was reported stolen from a business at 5912 S. 28th St. The van was reported stolen from the business owner on the morning of July 14, police said.
Through a tip from a Fayetteville resident, the stolen van was recovered in Fayetteville, and Jones was identified, the release states.
Fictitious license plates on the van led investigators to suspect Jones of being involved in the theft. Fayetteville authorities told Fort Smith police that a similar theft occurred in Fayetteville in 2010. Jones was arrested in connection to the 2010 case, according to the release.
Violating his parole, Jones left the state, thought to be heading for St. Paul, Minn. A parole violation warrant was issued for his arrest, and on July 22, the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force arrested Jones on that warrant, the release states.
Jones is currently awaiting extradition back to Arkansas where he will be questioned concerning his involvement in the $25,000 tire and rim theft case, according to the release.
