September 22, 2015 - According to the press release, Shelby County Sheriff Sheriff Willis Blackwell said on July 24 a complainant contacted the Shelby County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) to report missing items including toolboxes and a window unit air conditioner from his residence. Deputy Adam Renfro went to the property located on U.S. Highway 96 South in Center and took inventory of the missing items from the homeowner.An investigation into the theft of an air conditioner unit in July developed into an inquiry of a Center man who later submitted to a polygraph examination.
Due to another theft incident that had recently occurred in the area, sergeant investigator D.J. Dickerson traveled to a next door residence in an attempt to make contact with subjects and gain information regarding the missing property. Upon arrival at the property, Dickerson observed a toolbox identical to the one the complainant reported missing and photographed the item for verification. Dickerson then traveled to the complainant's home where he verified the item pictured was in fact his missing toolbox. Dickerson returned to the property, recovered the stolen item and secured it for evidence.
On August 20, Dickerson requested an interview with Robert Mitchell Miller II, 25, of Center who was serving time at the Shelby County Jail on unrelated charges. During the course of the interview, Miller denied any knowledge of the stolen items. Additional interviews over the following days with Miller's girlfriend, and father, led investigators to believe he was lying about his involvement with the stolen property. Miller agreed to a polygraph examination.
Texas Department of Public Safety Special Agent Derick Walker conducted a polygraph examination August 25 on Miller. During the exam, deception was observed regarding his answers to questions regarding entering the complainant’s residence and stealing the window A/C unit.
Miller confessed to entering the complainant's residence and stealing the property. The air conditioner was also recovered and secured for evidence. He was charged with burglary of a habitation – felony 2. He remains in the Shelby County Jail on bonds totaling $5,000.
Submitted by Leah Chase
