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OROVILLE — On December 12th at approximately 10:40 AM, Butte County firefighters arrived at a building on Arbol Drive near Olive Highway after reports of a structure fire. Investigators were also able to determine that the residence had been robbed, and a BCSO deputy responded to assist.
The deputy managed to locate quite a few of the items stolen from the home and garage while canvassing the woods, including an ATV stolen from the garage. He also discovered 33-year-old Richard Thomas Harris hiding under a brush pile.
Harris was detained and found to be in possession of a stolen handgun, ammunition, and other property, as well as items stolen out of Medford, Oregon. Methamphetamine and paraphernalia were also discovered.
He was arrested for two counts of burglary, arson, vehicle theft, felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, obstructing or resisting officers, possession of stolen property, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is being held without bail as well due to an outstanding warrant.
An estimated $38,000 worth of stolen property was returned to the victims, with the total value of the damage to the home yet to be assessed.
