Marina
A comprehensive multi-state investigation has culminated in the arrest of Curtis L. Barton, a 40-year-old man from Jacksonville, Arkansas.
Barton is suspected of committing over 30 commercial burglaries, primarily targeting school districts across Missouri and Iowa. The coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies from multiple states led to his apprehension on April 29, 2025.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation commenced on February 2, 2025, when the Cardinal Community School District in Wapello County, Iowa, reported break-ins at all three of its schools.
The incidents resulted in extensive property damage and the theft of over $4,000 in cash. Subsequent reports of similar burglaries emerged from various school districts in Missouri and southwest Iowa, prompting a broader investigation .
Law enforcement agencies, including the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID), the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office (Iowa), and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office (Missouri), collaborated to identify Barton as the prime suspect.
A background check revealed that Barton was on parole for a previous conviction related to burglarizing schools and small businesses in Missouri in 2018 .
Arrest and Charges
Search warrants were executed at Barton’s residences in Jacksonville and Sherwood, Arkansas. Evidence directly linking him to the burglaries was discovered during these searches.
Barton was taken into custody and is currently held at the Pulaski County Detention Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, with a bond set at $100,000.
He faces multiple charges, including burglary, theft, and property damage. Extradition proceedings to Missouri are pending .
Impact on School Districts
The burglaries have affected at least 16 school districts, with 14 in Missouri and 2 in Iowa. The incidents have not only resulted in financial losses but have also disrupted the educational environment, causing concern among students, parents, and staff.
Authorities are reviewing additional burglaries of small businesses that may be connected to Barton.
Summary Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Curtis L. Barton |
| Age | 40 |
| Residence | Jacksonville, Arkansas |
| Number of Burglaries | Over 30 |
| States Affected | Missouri and Iowa |
| Initial Incident Date | February 2, 2025 |
| Arrest Date | April 29, 2025 |
| Detention Facility | Pulaski County Detention Center, Arkansas |
| Bond Amount | $100,000 |
| Pending Charges | Burglary, Theft, Property Damage |
| Extradition Status | Pending to Missour |
The arrest of Curtis L. Barton marks a significant step in addressing a series of burglaries that have impacted numerous school districts across Missouri and Iowa.
The collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies underscore the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling cross-jurisdictional crimes.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain vigilant in ensuring the safety and security of educational institutions.