OSBI Offering $7500 Rewards For Help In Tracking Down Suspect In Connection With String Of Watonga Home Invasions

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is now asking for the public's help in tracking down a suspect who they believe is responsible for a string of home invasions in Watonga.

The OSBI said they’ve been investigating the crimes since 2019, but still no answers. They’re now offering two separate $7,500 rewards for anyone with information on either case.  

They’re hopeful the reward will help inspire someone to come forward with information.

"Over the past two years we’ve done everything we can to find and get justice for these two victims," Brook Arbeitman, with the OSBI, said. 

According to investigators, the first break-in happened in October of 2019, when an 82-year-old man was hospitalized after he was assaulted and robbed while inside his home near East 4th Street and North County Road. His vehicle was also stolen, which was later found by law enforcement.

The second break-in happened just over a month later, but this time a 78-year-old woman was the victim. According to investigators, she was sexually assaulted by the suspect who then stole several items from her house. The woman said the man just walked in and pointed a gun at her.

"We definitely believe that the two crimes are connected for multiple reasons," Arbeitman said. "Including the way that the suspect broke into each home, the fact that he had a gun."

The Blaine County Sheriff’s Office requested the OSBI’s assistance on both cases. 

Though it’s been nearly two years since the crimes, investigators hope justice can be served for both victims.

"Obviously, these are horrible crimes committed on anybody," Arbeitman said. "Particularly committed on an 82-year-old man and a 78-year-old woman, it’s just awful."

If you have any information on either of the two cases, you’re asked to contact the OSBI at tips@osbi.ok.gov.