Tomah, Wisconsin – A 29-year-old Wisconsin man was taken into custody Saturday night after deputies say he broke into a storage facility, damaged multiple units, and attempted to steal property in Tomah, prompting a multi-hour response and the deployment of a K-9 unit, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the incident unfolded in two phases, beginning earlier in the day and culminating in a late-night arrest after the suspect allegedly returned to the same location.
Initial Call Reports Storage Units Broken Into
Deputies first responded shortly before noon on Saturday to a reported theft at a storage facility located in the 22475 block of State Highway 21. A victim told authorities that their camper, along with several other campers and storage units, had been broken into.
At the time of the initial call, deputies documented damage to property and gathered information as part of an ongoing investigation. No suspect was immediately located, but authorities continued to monitor the area.
Second Call Leads to Active Theft Investigation
Later that same night, deputies received another call reporting a suspect actively stealing items at the same storage facility. According to the sheriff’s office, the caller reported suspicious activity and believed someone was currently on the property.
When deputies arrived, they discovered that a hole had been cut into the perimeter fence, allowing unauthorized access to the facility. Given the circumstances, additional resources were requested to assist with the search.
K-9 Unit Deployed to Track Suspect
Deputies deployed K-9 Rebel, a trained law enforcement dog, to assist in locating the suspect. The K-9 tracked movement on the property and ultimately led deputies to a vehicle parked nearby.
Authorities say that near the vehicle, deputies found evidence of attempted theft, including a catalytic converter that had been cut off, indicating possible involvement in additional property crimes.
Suspect Taken Into Custody Without Incident
The suspect was identified as Mark A. Sayre Jr., 29, of Wisconsin. Deputies say Sayre was taken into custody without incident and transported for questioning.
No injuries were reported during the arrest, and law enforcement confirmed that the situation was resolved safely.
Investigation Ongoing, Charges Pending
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation remains active and ongoing. At this time, officials have not released a full list of charges, noting that additional evidence is still being reviewed.
Authorities are working to determine whether Sayre may be connected to other thefts or property crimes in the area, including the earlier break-ins reported at the storage facility.
Reminder for Property Owners
Law enforcement officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant, especially those who store campers, trailers, or vehicles in storage facilities or unsecured lots. Property owners are encouraged to:
- Regularly check storage units and vehicles
- Report suspicious activity immediately
- Ensure fencing, locks, and lighting are properly maintained
Deputies also emphasized the importance of quick reporting, noting that the second call played a key role in allowing officers to respond while the suspect was still on scene.
Community Safety and Law Enforcement Response
The sheriff’s office credited teamwork and the effective use of specialized resources, including K-9 Rebel, for helping bring the situation to a safe conclusion. Officials say K-9 units remain a critical tool in locating suspects who attempt to flee or hide during active investigations.
Further updates are expected once prosecutors review the case and formal charges are filed.
Do you think storage facilities need stronger security measures to prevent break-ins? Should penalties for repeat property crimes be tougher?
Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what you think.
