By Staff Reports

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — On Tuesday, January 3, 2017 DeKalb County Investigators were canvassing the area due to recent thefts at local churches.

A silver van matching the possible suspect vehicle was seen and investigators conducted a traffic stop on county road 365. The van was occupied by two male subjects also matching the suspect’s description.

Investigators searched the vehicle and found a large radiator, a steel wheel appearing to be from an eighteen wheeler, tools, and wire cutters.

Anthony Collins, 37, of Fort Payne and James Edward Barron, 34, of Grant, were arrested and charged with unlawful possession of burglar tools. After investigators completed an inventory of the vehicle more evidence was found to link the subjects to the theft of two local churches.

Barron and Collins have also been charged with theft of property and more charges are pending as the investigation continues.

DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris said of the capture, “I am thankful to the community for getting involved, our investigators for their hard work, and Geraldine Police Department for their help during this investigation. To submit tips please visit our website at www.dekalbcountysheriff.org”