Serial robber nabbed

Authorities believe they have solved a series of burglaries that spanned three counties and more than 40 businesses within the past four months.

Santa Rosa County Sheriff's deputies have apprehended Lyle Dean Roland, 42, of Florosa, a convicted felon, after a third party implicated him in a series of burglaries that have perplexed law enforcement officials since the first incident occurred back in September.  In each case, Roland allegedly gained access to each facility using the same method.  Until recently, when detectives investigating the crimes caught a break in the case after Roland reportedly tried to pawn some of the items he had stolen, the only significant clue officials had was surveillance video of a unique tattoo Roland is said to have on his forearm.

According to officials, Roland is being held in the Okaloosa County Jail pending further investigation.

For more on this story, check out the Dec. 23 edition of the Navarre Press, or subscribe online.