Two charged in north county burglary

Two men are suspected with being behind multiple break-ins in Randolph County, north of Sparta, according to the Randolph County Sheriff's Office.

A news release from the sheriff's office on Tuesday says that the men have been charged with one count each of residential burglary. They are Patrick Jones, 41, of Washington County and Anthony Schneider, 39, of Freeburg.

Sheriff Shannon Wolff said in the thefts, a large number of tools and collectibles were reported stolen. An investigation led authorities to the home of Patrick Jones on Honeysuckle Road in rural Washington County. A search warrant was executed Sept. 9 on the property, resulting in the recovery of a number of items previously reported stolen from the victim.

Police say additional arrests are likely. Authorities have also uncovered ties to burglaries in both rural Washington and St. Clair Counties as well.

Authorities believe the scope of this string of burglaries over the course of time may be quite vast, and as a result this investigation remains open and ongoing.

Residents who have additional information in connection to this case or a related case are encouraged to call the Randolph County Sheriff's Office at (618) 826-5484.