Two Arrested Following Burglary at USD 470 Warehouse

On May 5, 2025, employees at USD 470 - Arkansas City Public Schools reported significant damage to the warehouse located at 715 S. 1st Street. An investigation revealed that unknown suspect(s) had forcibly entered the building and stolen equipment valued at over $9,000.

The Arkansas City Police Department was notified and began an immediate investigation. Surveillance footage showed that the burglary occurred during the early morning hours of May 3, 2025. Two individuals were observed removing property from the premises.

The Cowley County Blue Line Trackers were instrumental in assisting officers with the collection of critical evidence at the scene. As a result of the investigation, two persons of interest were identified. Detectives secured and executed search warrants for two residences on May 6, 2025.

During the searches, a majority of the stolen items were located and recovered. Dakota Sparks, 30, and Dakota Hughes, 32, both of Arkansas City, were arrested in connection with the burglary. Both individuals were booked into the Cowley County Jail on charges of Burglary, Theft, and Criminal Damage to Property. Each suspect’s bond was set at $25,000.

The Arkansas City Police Department continues to investigate and encourages anyone with additional information about this incident to contact the Arkansas City Police Department at 620-441-4547 or Crimestoppers at 620-442-7777. Tips can also be submitted online or using the attached QR code.