Man Arrested for Ville Platte Burglary Involving Clown Mask

Suspect allegedly stole chainsaw, traded it for narcotics

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Casey Stephen McCauley, a 31-year-old Ville Platte resident, was arrested and charged with unauthorized entry of a business and simple burglary after allegedly stealing a chainsaw from Butler's Tree Service while wearing a clown mask. The stolen chainsaw was later recovered by police and found to have been traded for narcotics.

Why it matters

Burglaries involving masks or disguises can raise concerns about public safety and the potential for violence. This incident highlights the need for vigilance from local businesses and effective law enforcement to address property crimes in the Ville Platte area.

The details

According to deputies, surveillance footage showed a masked suspect entering Butler's Tree Service on February 10th and taking a chainsaw from the equipment storage area. Detectives later identified the suspect as Casey Stephen McCauley, who allegedly denied any involvement during initial interviews. However, the stolen chainsaw was later recovered by the Turkey Creek Police Department and positively identified by the business owner. Further investigation revealed that McCauley had allegedly traded the stolen chainsaw for narcotics.

  • The burglary occurred on February 10, 2026.
  • McCauley was arrested on February 26, 2026.
  • McCauley's bond was set at $75,000.

The players

Casey Stephen McCauley

A 31-year-old resident of Ville Platte who was arrested and charged with unauthorized entry of a business and simple burglary.

Butler's Tree Service

The business from which the chainsaw was stolen in Ville Platte, Louisiana.

Turkey Creek Police Department

The law enforcement agency that recovered the stolen chainsaw.

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What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking the public for any additional information related to the case.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for local businesses to remain vigilant and work closely with law enforcement to address property crimes in the Ville Platte area.