Two Arrested After Burglary Investigation in Evadale; Stolen Property Recovered

EVADALE, Texas — Two men were arrested Thursday following a burglary investigation in Evadale that unfolded after a business owner reported suspected stolen property, according to Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard.

On December 18, 2025, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Chad Ainsworth was contacted by a local business owner who reported that individuals were attempting to sell items the owner believed to be stolen. Shortly after that report, a separate complainant contacted Lt. Ainsworth regarding a burglary that had just occurred in Evadale and had been captured on video.

According to Sheriff Havard, the individuals seen in the burglary footage matched the description of those attempting to sell the suspected stolen property earlier in the day.

Using contact information left with the business owner, Lt. Ainsworth contacted the suspects and posed as a buyer for some of the items. The suspects later returned to Evadale with the stolen property, where they were taken into custody by Lt. Ainsworth, Sgt. David Lampman, and Deputy Tony Tipton.

Stolen property was recovered during the arrest, with some items already returned to their rightful owner. Additional stolen property was located inside the suspects’ vehicle, and further investigation is ongoing to identify additional victims.

Authorities identified the suspects as Billy Wayne Bailey, 53, of Lovelady, and Tristen Keith Justice Loftin, 25, of Silsbee. Both were arrested and charged with Burglary of a Habitation, a second-degree felony. Loftin was also found to have a confirmed warrant through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for a parole violation.

Photos Courtesy of Jasper County Sheriff's Office

Both men were transported to the Jasper County Jail.

Sheriff Havard emphasized that both individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

“The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to combating criminal activity and protecting the citizens of Jasper County,” Havard said.