CALHOUN MAN ARRESTED FOR THEFT OF GUNS - $17,500 Rig Equipment Theft Under Investigation

(10/24/2008)
A Calhoun man has been arrested in a case related to the burglary of six guns from a Big Springs residence in August.

Calhoun Sheriff Carl Ballengee said Matthew Clay Bell, 24, of the Creston area, is in Central Regional Jail, charged with nighttime burglary, breaking and entering and brandishing.

Bell is being held with bond set at $13,000.

Calhoun Sheriff's Deputy J. D. Smith said he and Cpl. Jeff Hunt investigated the incident on Bowser Rd. at the William Oshe residence.

Deputy Smith said three of the guns, a rifle and two shotguns, had been recovered shortly after the incident.

Later, all six guns had been recovered.

Sheriff Ballengee said the investigation continues in a $17,500 heist of equipment from a drilling rig site on Katie's Run.

Clowser Well Service of Salem reported the theft of power tongs, a depth meter and a water pump from an operation where the company was drilling for Francis Cain.

The theft of the equipment happened on or about August 7th, likely during the early morning hours.

"We continue to get some leads, and are hoping the public can help us with this case," Ballengee said.