Arrest Made in Melcher-Dallas Vehicle Theft Investigation

21-year-old August Cawley charged with multiple counts of theft and firearm possession

Mar. 19, 2026 at 10:33pm

The Marion County Sheriff's Office has arrested 21-year-old August Cawley in connection with a series of vehicle break-ins and thefts that occurred in Melcher-Dallas on March 3rd. Cawley was identified as a suspect and taken into custody on March 18th by the Sheriff's Office and U.S. Marshals Service. He has been charged with four counts of probation violation, theft in the 1st and 2nd degree, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Why it matters

Vehicle thefts and break-ins are an ongoing issue in many communities, often leading to property damage, loss of personal items, and a sense of violation for victims. This arrest highlights the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement to identify and apprehend repeat offenders who threaten public safety.

The details

According to the Marion County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to reports of a subject breaking into vehicles in Melcher-Dallas on March 3rd. During the investigation, they determined that two trucks and multiple cars had been entered, with one firearm reported stolen. Cawley was identified as a suspect, but was not immediately located. On March 18th, the Sheriff's Office and U.S. Marshals Service were able to find and arrest Cawley without incident. He was then booked into the Marion County Jail on the various charges.

  • On March 3rd, the Marion County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of vehicle break-ins in Melcher-Dallas.
  • On March 18th, the Marion County Sheriff's Office and U.S. Marshals Service located and arrested August Cawley.

The players

August Cawley

A 21-year-old man who has been charged with multiple counts of theft and firearm possession in connection with the vehicle break-ins in Melcher-Dallas.

Marion County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the reports of vehicle break-ins and led the investigation that resulted in Cawley's arrest.

U.S. Marshals Service

The federal law enforcement agency that assisted the Marion County Sheriff's Office in locating and apprehending the suspect, August Cawley.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for August Cawley as the investigation continues and additional charges may be filed.

The takeaway

This arrest demonstrates the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts to address persistent property crimes in local communities, and the need for accountability measures to prevent repeat offenders from continuing to threaten public safety.