Two in Custody Following Home Burglary in Sheldon

I still remember reading the initial police report and thinking how unsettling it must have been for the homeowners. On Sunday, January 25, around 1 p.m., a residence on the 1900 block of East Ninth Street in Sheldon was broken into. The burglars didn’t just walk in—they forced their way through a double-pane basement window on the north side, leaving the family shocked and shaken.

You might wonder what they took. Among the items were $3,800 in jewelry, a jewelry box, a .22-caliber ArmaLite AR-15 rifle, and a muzzleloader.

Footprints in the backyard revealed the path the thieves took, leading to the nearby East Lawn Cemetery. And thanks to surveillance footage from a nearby building, authorities were able to track a 2003 Ford F-150 leaving the cemetery around the time of the burglary.

When I think about it, this isn’t just another story of theft—it’s about the disruption of someone’s sense of safety. Knowing exactly how the burglars gained access, what they stole, and how law enforcement traced them makes you realize how vulnerable our homes can be, and why paying attention to the details matters.

Arrest and Investigation

When I read the details from NWestiowa, it really hit me how thorough the police work was. On Tuesday, January 27, officers tracked down the suspects at Arnold Motor Supply in Sheldon. Inside the 2003 Ford F-150, they found Pedersen and Wagner. Pedersen gave consent to search the vehicle, and some of the stolen jewelry from the burglary was recovered.

What struck me most was how the investigation connected the dots. Footprints from the scene, surveillance footage, and eyewitness information led law enforcement straight to the suspects. Wagner admitted to committing the burglary, while Pedersen confessed to giving him a ride and waiting nearby in the cemetery. I found myself thinking—this is a textbook example of careful police work combined with community vigilance.

You can’t help but notice how small details—like a footprint or a surveillance camera—make all the difference when it comes to solving a case. For anyone reading this, it’s a reminder: attention to your surroundings and reporting suspicious activity can really help prevent or solve crimes.

Cases like these remind me of previous incidents across the country, such as when authorities arrested two people after a home invasion in Violet, Louisiana.

Legal Charges Filed Against Suspects

Reading the court documents made me realize the weight of these actions. Wagner faces multiple charges: third-degree burglary, second-degree theft, fifth-degree criminal mischief, meth possession, intent to deliver meth, drug paraphernalia, and obstructing prosecution.

Pedersen was charged with third-degree burglary and was also wanted on a warrant from Texas.

I want you to notice how serious this is. The second-degree theft charge alone covers stolen property valued between $1,501 and $10,000, while fifth-degree criminal mischief is for damages under $300. These numbers aren’t just legal jargon—they show the real consequences of criminal actions, and they affect real people.

Knowing the charges and potential penalties helps the community understand that the law takes burglary seriously. It’s also a reminder that consequences extend far beyond just returning stolen items.

Tragic incidents have also occurred, such as a Texas woman in her 70s who died during a home invasion shootout, highlighting how quickly such situations can escalate.

Crime Pattern & Community Impact

When I look at this case, I see patterns emerging. Burglars targeted a basement window and high-value items—something many homeowners might overlook when thinking about security. Beyond property loss, the emotional impact on neighbors and victims can’t be overstated.

Fear, anxiety, and the feeling that “your safe space has been violated” linger long after the burglars are gone.

If you live in a similar community, it’s worth asking yourself: are your windows, doors, and valuables truly secure? It’s not about being paranoid—it’s about protecting your home and peace of mind.

We’ve also seen similar armed home burglaries in Texas, where multiple suspects were apprehended following detailed investigations.

Safety Measures for Homeowners

Here’s where it gets practical. You don’t need to live in fear, but I do think you should take action. Install reliable locks, reinforce basement windows, consider motion-detecting cameras, and stay connected with your neighbors.

A neighborhood watch or community alert system can also make a difference.

Experts recommend keeping valuables out of plain sight and using timers for lights when you’re away. Even simple steps like trimming shrubs near windows can deter opportunistic burglars. The goal isn’t just prevention—it’s peace of mind.

If you want quick updates and practical safety tips delivered straight to your phone, many residents find following crime alert channels on WhatsApp really useful. It’s an easy way to stay informed about local incidents and take preventive steps without waiting for the news.

Unanswered Questions & Ongoing Investigation

Even with arrests, some questions remain. The .22-caliber ArmaLite AR-15 rifle and some of the jewelry have not yet been recovered.

Law enforcement is still investigating, and there may be more updates in the coming weeks.

For residents, it’s a reminder that crime investigations are rarely clean-cut. Staying informed, checking local updates, and practicing safety measures is the best way to protect yourself and your community.

Takeaways for Sheldon Residents

After reading about this burglary and the arrests, I want you to take a moment and think about your own home. It’s easy to assume it won’t happen to you, but cases like this show how quickly things can change.

Here’s what I’d suggest:

• Check your entry points: Make sure all doors and windows are secure, especially basement and back entrances.
• Install visible security measures: Cameras, alarms, and even simple motion-sensor lights can act as deterrents.
• Stay connected with neighbors: Sharing suspicious activity can prevent a small issue from becoming a bigger crime.
• Keep valuables out of sight: Jewelry, cash, and firearms should be stored safely, preferably in a secure safe.
• Report suspicious activity immediately: Don’t wait—call your local police or use community alert systems.

I think the most important takeaway is this: safety isn’t just about locks or alarms—it’s about awareness, preparation, and community vigilance.

Now, I want to hear from you. Have you ever taken steps to make your home safer after hearing about a local burglary? Or maybe you have tips that worked in your neighborhood? Drop your thoughts in the comments or share this with your neighbors—because safety grows stronger when we look out for each other.

For more updates on local crime stories and safety tips, you can follow us on X and join our Facebook community where we share alerts, tips, and discuss neighborhood safety with residents just like you.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on publicly available sources, including police reports and local news. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should verify details with official authorities for accuracy.