On October 14, 2025, Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard was contacted by officials from Brookeland ISD regarding the theft of a utility vehicle, tools, and other items from the district’s maintenance shop on October 9. The school provided surveillance photos of a possible suspect, which were forwarded to Investigator Calvin Starkie.
Investigator Starkie quickly began a detailed investigation and was able to link the suspects to several additional thefts and burglaries in the area. Information led law enforcement to a residence off FM 252 in Magnolia Springs, where the stolen Brookeland ISD utility vehicle was located.
With coordinated efforts, Investigator Starkie, Texas Game Warden Brooks Yeates, and Jasper PD Detective Robert Twine recovered the utility vehicle and took Dustin Harry Jackson, 33, and James Ryan Smith, 25, both from Brookeland, into custody. In addition to theft (State Jail Felony), Smith was charged with possession of a controlled substance (Felony 3) and possession of marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor).
Both suspects were transported to the Jasper County Jail. Authorities noted that further charges may be pending as the investigation continues. The utility vehicle is scheduled to be returned to Brookeland ISD either later that evening or the following morning.
Sheriff Havard praised the dedication of Investigator Starkie, Warden Yeates, and Detective Twine, highlighting their tireless work over the past 48 hours to bring the suspects to justice. “Investigator Starkie is one of the best in the state. Once he’s on a case, there’s no getting away,” Havard said, noting that the arrests bring relief to the community and ensure the stolen property is returned.
