Suspect in local thefts arrested in Higginsville

Ryan M. Heathman.

The Nevada Police Department has announced that after an extensive investigation into several reported thefts and burglaries committed in the city, a suspect has been arrested.

Working in close cooperation with the Nevada Police Department, the Higginsville Police Department arrested Ryan M. Heathman, 33, of Nevada. Heathman was wanted by Nevada police for numerous crimes but had been evading capture and arrest. He was taken into custody by the Higginsville police on Friday on a Lafayette County warrant alleging forgery.

Shortly after Heathman was arrested, investigators from the Nevada Police Department conducted a suspect interrogation, that along with physical evidence, have led local police to clear several other reported crimes that occurred in Nevada.

Felony warrants for burglary and fraudulent use of a credit device had already been issued by the Vernon County Associate Circuit Court prior to Heathman's arrest. Investigators have cleared five additional felonies in Nevada with the apprehension of this suspect.

Heathman is wanted by multiple jurisdictions in Southwest Missouri for various crimes. Heathman is being held in the Lafayette County Jail in Lexington, Mo., on a $15,000 cash or surety bond.

Citizens are encouraged to contact police if they have information that would be helpful to combat crime. For questions regarding crime prevention techniques or to start a Neighborhood Watch Program, contact the Nevada Police Department at 417- 448-5100. To report criminal activities call the Dispatch Center at 417-448-2710 or 911. The confidential Tip Hotline can be contacted at 417-448 --5117. Any and all information will be kept confidential.