[ April 16, 2021 ] (PICKENS, Georgia) - On Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at approximately 11:30 AM, Pickens Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a suspected theft call at a local business near Highway 53.

That evening, the subject, John Rakestraw, was taken into custody and later charged.

After arriving at the original scene, a few miles north of the Tate four-way intersection, deputies gathered that while actively stealing vehicle parts, the subject was confronted by the business owner and immediately fled to the woods. The canine was deployed and deputies began a search of the area. Out of an abundance of caution, the Pickens High School was made aware of the incident and placed on a Lock Out at approximately 11:50, where students continued about their day normally within the school but entry to the school was restricted.

The initial search continued for approximately two hours without locating the subject.

Around 7:00 PM, deputies located an individual matching the description of the suspect walking westbound on Highway 108. After being taken into custody, he was positively identified by the business owner and charged with Felony Entering an Auto, Felony Possession of Tools to Commit a Crime, Felony Criminal Damage to Property, Criminal Trespass, and Misdemeanor Theft by Taking.

The subject was initially taken into custody on separate charges. After deputies made contact with Rakestraw near Refuge Road, he was taken into custody for outstanding warrants in surrounding counties. After confirming he was the individual involved in the theft, the additional theft, trespassing, and felony charges were added.

The investigation determined that Rakestraw does not have any known ties to Pickens County.