MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Detectives from the MARMET Drug Task Force have taken the lead in investigating the theft of firearms from Rural King, which occurred on November 22, 2024. The investigation has seen significant collaboration with deputies from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Marion Police Department.
On December 5, 2024, MARMET detectives, working in conjunction with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, apprehended the first suspect, Daquail Rogers, in Columbus, Ohio, without incident. A search warrant was obtained and executed at a residence in Columbus, leading to the recovery of evidence related to the Rural King theft as well as information pertinent to other ongoing investigations by the Marion City Police Department Detective Bureau.
Upon returning to Marion, MARMET detectives executed search warrants at three additional properties in the city. During two of these searches, they recovered one of the stolen rifles from Rural King, along with evidence linking several individuals to the crime. Two suspects also made admissions regarding their involvement.
The following day, December 6, MARMET Detectives initiated surveillance on another target, Todd Coleman Jr. He was observed leaving his residence, and a traffic stop was conducted, resulting in his arrest without incident. A subsequent search warrant for his residence yielded additional evidence connected to the Rural King burglary.
By the end of December 6, MARMET detectives successfully recovered the second stolen firearm and gathered crucial information linking individuals to this crime.
Rogers, Coleman, and two 17-year-old juveniles have been arrested without incident and are currently facing charges of two counts of theft of a firearm (a felony of the 1st degree) and breaking and entering (a felony of the 5th degree).
“This case demonstrates the exceptional collaboration between the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Marion Police Department,” said Sheriff Matt Bayles. “The teamwork and dedication of these officers and deputies have been instrumental in solving this case.”
Marion Police Chief Jay McDonald added, “I am proud of the extensive work put into this investigation. A serious crime has been addressed, and we have obtained evidence that may aid in the resolution of additional cases.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests may occur as additional evidence is collected. The case will be forwarded to Marion County Prosecutor Raymond Grogan’s office for formal charges.
The MARMET Drug Task Force is composed of members from the Marion City Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.
Citizens are encouraged to report any tips related to criminal activity by calling 740-387-TIPS (8477) or visiting mariontips.org. Tipsters may remain anonymous if they choose.