An alert dog and a quick thinking northern Sampson resident halted a burglary at a Timothy Road home early Monday morning and led to the arrest of a Dunn teenager on a string of felony charges.

According to Sheriff’s Lt. Marcus Smith, the incident occurred shortly before 5:30 a.m. when a 10110 Timothy Road resident was awakened by his barking dog. Concerned at why the dog was barking, the homeowner, Smith said, went to investigate, discovering someone standing in his master bathroom wearing a mask and dark clothing.

The lieutenant said the homeowner attempted to detain the person but was unsuccessful, with the individual able to break free and flee the residence.

Officers were called to the scene and began an investigation, collecting evidence and interviewing the homeowner.

Smith said a canvass search of the area led officers to Hickory Lane where they found a man matching the description given by the homeowner.

Through investigation, enough probable cause was established to charge the suspect in the crime.

Taken into custody was Dathan Olan Gautier, 19, of 31 Hickory Lane, Dunn. He was charged with first degree burglary, attempted first degree burglary, larceny after burglary and possession of stolen property.

Gautier was placed in the Sampson County Detention Center under a $105,000 bond and is expected to make his first appearance in District Court April 22.

Sampson County Sheriff Jimmy Thornton offered his praise to investigating officers for the quick arrest of a suspect in the incident.

“My team does a terrific job every day, and I appreciate all the hard work they put in to help keep the citizens of Sampson County safe,” the sheriff noted.

Reach publisher and editor Sherry Matthews at 910-249-4612. Follow her on Twitter @sieditor1960; follow the paper @SampsonInd and like us on Facebook.

By Sherry Matthews

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