WAGONER COUNTY, Okla. — A suspect was arrested after a string of burglaries across Wagoner, Rogers, and Coweta counties. Nicholas Cotton, 34, was taken into custody on November 5, following a comprehensive investigation that spanned several counties.
The investigation began on October 5, when Wagoner County deputies, working with Rogers County deputies, attempted to recover stolen property. Their search led them to a residence in Rogers County, where deputies, using a drone, discovered a 2011 Chevy pickup truck and trailer, both confirmed to be stolen.
Further investigation led to the recovery of other stolen property, including a zero-turn mower taken from Broken Arrow. Deputies also discovered evidence linking Cotton to a burglary at Sanders Nursery in Wagoner County on October 4 and 5.
The investigation took a significant turn when deputies utilized the Wagoner County FLOCK ALPR system, uncovering crucial video evidence that helped trace Cotton’s location. Deputies then executed a search warrant in Coweta on October 7, recovering more stolen items, including a welder and two vehicles tied to the burglary.
Cotton was apprehended without incident by Tulsa Police Department officers and transported to the David L. Moss Detention Center. He faces multiple charges, including possession of stolen vehicles, grand larceny, burglary, and theft of fuel. Investigators believe additional felony charges will follow as the investigation continues, and Cotton is suspected of involvement in other crimes across the region.
Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliott commended the teamwork and dedication of the law enforcement agencies involved. “We were able to quickly identify a suspect and recover stolen property from multiple jurisdictions. My deputies will continue to aggressively pursue criminals that victimize the Wagoner County community,” Sheriff Elliott said.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities expect more suspects may be identified as they continue to piece together the details of these burglaries across the counties.