Teens arrested linked to other crimes in Sikeston

SIKESTON, Mo. - Detectives have linked three teens arrested for allegedly burglarizing a home earlier in the month to other crimes in Sikeston.

According to a news release from Sgt. Jim McMillen, the Sikeston teens have been linked to six cases that included arson, stolen vehicle, burglary and tampering with a vehicle.

The suspects arrested are Eliot D. Bonner, 18, a 14-year-old boy and a 12-year-old boy.

The most recent incident occurred at 107 Ruth St., Apt. B., on March 16. Witnesses told police they saw three teenagers break into the rear of the home. Once Sikeston officers arrived at the scene, witnesses said they suspected the teens were still in the home.

McMillen said after police kicked the door open, no one was inside, though police were able to get descriptions from witnesses at the scene. Before arriving at the scene, police during a routine public contact talked with three subjects matching the description of the suspects.

Officers canvassed the area and found the suspects walking on South New Madrid Street, two blocks from the burglary scene. The suspects were then identified by witnesses and taken into custody.

McMillen said the teens are suspected of stealing tools.

Soon after the incident Sikeston Detective Bobby Sullivan began gathering information from the crime. That led to Sikeston's Criminal Investigation Unit clearing several other recent crimes in the city.

In addition to the burglary on March 16, the teens also are suspected of involvement with stolen vehicles cases at Frisco Street and 535 S. Frisco St. on March 15, tampering with a vehicle at 1505 E. Malone St. on March 15, arson of a shed at 419 William St. on March 14 and arson of a house at 318 Daniel St. on Feb. 9.

Bonner has been charged with second-degree arson, second-degree burglary, knowingly burning or exploding and second-degree property damage. He remains in custody on a $1,000 cash bond.

The other two juveniles were released to their parents and are waiting to appear in juvenile court.