Farm Burglaries in East Central Arkansas Lead Police to Possible Suspect

A multi-agency manhunt ends in Prairie County on Friday for a suspect police say was driving a stolen pick-up truck. Police are not releasing the suspects name for fear it could jeopardize the investigation. Fridays apprehension comes on the heels of dozens of burglaries in 7 counties in the past month, leading police to believe more people are involved. Police say burglars are getting their hands on ATVs, pick-up trucks and trailers. "This is huge, this is a huge theft ring," said Prairie County Sheriff Randy Munnerlyn. "From interstate 40, Highway 70, they`re hitting just these rural counties." In Prairie County alone this month, police record 14 stolen 4-wheelers, and 7 to 8 stolen pick-up trucks. Its no coincidence say police that other counties, like Lonoke are getting hit harder. "They could either be selling them, or chopping them up, selling them for parts," said Munnerlyn. Des Arc farmer Davis Bell is not taking anything for granted. Bell is keeping a close watch on his property, knowing several of his fellow farmers have been victim to theft. "Im making sure we lock things, making sure keys are removed, making sure alarms are set," said Bell. "Right now it may be property that they are stealing, but what`s to stop them from breaking into your home?" Police say their search of other suspects will continue on Saturday. Arkansas State Police are using helicopters to search through acres of farm land. They say they hope to make arrests in coming days.