Gun Burglary

Special News Release

September 19, 2013

On September 17, 2013 the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office investigated a burglary to a residence in the Township of Freedom, Sauk County.  The homeowner reported that someone had entered their residence and stole several firearms, knives and electronic devices. 

On September 18, 2013 the Sheriff’s Office received information that a subject was trying sell firearms on the internet that matched the description of some of stolen firearms from this burglary.  Sheriff’s Detectives set up a meeting to purchase the firearms.  Upon meeting with the seller, it was confirmed the firearms were stolen from the burglary the previous day.  Information gathered during the investigation allowed the investigators to seek a search warrant for the other stolen weapons. 

Late on September 18, 2013, the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the City of Baraboo.  During the search warrant additional stolen firearms, knives, electronic devices, drugs, and drug paraphernalia were seized.  

As a result of the investigation, Matthew J. Staples, age 48, from Baraboo, was arrested for Burglary While Armed and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.  Cody A. Sanders, age 18, from Baraboo, was arrested for Burglary While Armed.  Staples and Sanders remain in the Sauk County Jail.

If convicted Staples could face 25 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $75,000, or both.  Sanders could face 15 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $50,000, or both.

Anyone with information on this crime or any other crimes is encouraged to call the Sauk County Crime Stoppers at 1-888-TIP-SAUK (847-7285). Callers may be eligible for cash rewards and can remain anonymous.

Sheriff Chip Meister