Buna Man Arrested on Burglary of Habitation Charge

Jake Neal, 44, of Buna, was arrested on January 1, 2026, on a warrant for Burglary of a Habitation (Felony 2).

JASPER COUNTY, Texas — A Buna man was arrested on New Year’s Day following an investigation by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office that stemmed from multiple tips from the public.

According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, on January 1, 2026, deputies received several tips regarding the whereabouts of a wanted individual. The suspect was identified as Jake Neal, also known as “Clean,” 44, of Buna.

Deputies followed up on multiple leads during the investigation. Authorities ultimately received information that Neal was located at a residence in the 300 block of County Road 404 in Kirbyville. Deputies responded to the location, where Neal was located and arrested without incident.

Neal was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for Burglary of a Habitation, a second-degree felony, and was transported to the Jasper County Jail. Officials say additional charges are pending.

As with all cases, Neal is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff Chuck Havard stated that he and his staff remain committed to combating criminal activity and maintaining public safety throughout Jasper County.