FREMONT - A rural Fremont man was arrested on multiple charges of vandalism.

The Steuben County Sheriff's Department said on Wednesday, April 3 deputies arrested Gavin R. Willis, 18, of Fremont following a 5-month-long investigation regarding multiple incidents of vandalism.

The incidents took place in the Lake Farm Estates area of Lake Gage in northwest Steuben County.

Willis was arrested on a warrant for one count of class B misdemeanor criminal mischief and one count of class A misdemeanor criminal mischief with a loss of $750 - $49,999.

The investigation began in November of 2023 with the first reported vandalism to a residence on Lake Gage Ln 220.

The Steuben County Sheriff's Office stated from November of 20203 to March of 2024, there were at least 5 incidents of vandalism causing several thousands of dollars worth of property damage.

During the investigation, the Sheriff's Office received multiple anonymous tips as well as video surveillance and other lead information from area residents which assisted in the identification of a suspect.

Detectives also reached out to the Prairie Heights School Police for assistance with identifying possible suspects.

During the investigation, a second male juvenile offender was also identified and referred to the Steuben County Juvenile Probation Department.

Willis was booked into the Steuben County Jail and remains held without bond pending an initial court appearance.

Assisting the Steuben County Sheriff's Office included the Indiana State Police and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Law Enforcement Division.