PORT ANGELES, WA — Jaired Nove was arrested last week after being caught stealing from Hartnagel Building Supply and subsequently found in possession of methamphetamine, a loaded firearm, and stolen items, according to the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation began when the hardware store on East Highway 101 reported a theft of Milwaukee batteries and a charger valued at about $707. Surveillance footage was shared publicly, and Deputy Eagan identified the suspect as Nove. The theft took place on July 3.
On July 10, deputies spotted Nove driving a blue 2003 Ford Crown Victoria near East 2nd Street in Port Angeles. He initially denied the theft but later confessed to taking one battery and hiding it under his shirt.
During his arrest, deputies discovered two green capsules containing a crystal-like substance identified as methamphetamine. They also found a wallet containing someone else’s driver’s license and cards, confirmed to be stolen.
A search warrant for Nove’s vehicle uncovered a loaded 9mm handgun, a high-capacity magazine holding 29 rounds, four syringes filled with suspected meth, a red container with pills, additional Milwaukee tools, and clothing matching the suspect in the surveillance footage.
Because Nove has a prior felony conviction from 2022, he is prohibited from owning firearms. The deputies obtained a warrant to seize the gun and ammunition. Field tests confirmed the substance was methamphetamine.
Nove was booked into Clallam County Jail on charges including unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of stolen property, possession of methamphetamine, and third-degree theft. His bail was set at $25,000.
