Commerce man arrested in 5-year-old burglary case

It took five years and a forensic investigation, but detectives’ efforts appear to have finally paid off.

On Thursday, April 18, the Banks County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ray Bernard Collins, Jr. in connection to a 2019 burglary at the Four Way Stop convenience store.

Ray Collins Jr. (Banks County Sheriff’s Office)

During the investigation, detectives determined the burglar entered the business through a broken window. According to Banks County Public Information Officer Austin Bond, investigators linked the 57-year-old Collins to the crime through evidence recovered at the scene.

Deputies charge Collins with 2nd-degree burglary.