Searcy County Sheriff Kenny Cassell reported on March 3, his office received a statement that a residence on Barren Hollow Road had been burglarized. Cassell said Searcy County Deputy Lt. Billy Cordell interviewed the homeowner at his residence.

During the interview Cordell learned that the homeowner did not currently reside at the residence but during his last visit approximately a month ago, nothing appeared to be out of place. The homeowner said during the current visit to the residence, it appeared that multiple calibers of ammunition were missing. Upon closer examination, the homeowner also reported that a portable air compressor was missing from the residence.

During the course of the investigation, law enforcement identified James Willard Tilley as a suspect in the case. On April 3, in an interview with Searcy County Chief Deputy Dewayne Pierce, Tilley admitted he entered the homeowner's residence and removed the property. 

On April 15, Tilley was arrested by Searcy County law enforcement officials and charged with residential burglary, Class B felony, and theft of property, Class B misdemeanor. Law enforcement is also reviewing the possibility of charging Tilley as an habitual offender.

Pierce stated that other arrests are possible since other leads are being followed.