CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — A daytime burglary attempt in rural Pickaway County ended with an arrest Thursday afternoon, with an unusual piece of evidence — a bag of Nerds candy — helping tie the suspect to the crime.
According to the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 2:14 p.m. on March 26, 2026, to a home on Little Walnut Road for a reported burglary in progress.
Suspect Spotted at Home
The homeowner, told deputies she was working outside when she noticed a woman on her front porch appearing to reach for her cellphone. When confronted, the suspect — later identified as Mariah Becks — fled the scene, running down the driveway and toward the wooded area near the end of the road.
A neighbor attempted to follow the suspect by car and reported seeing her enter the woods, prompting a perimeter response by deputies and South Bloomfield Police Department officers.
Arrest Made Nearby
Officers quickly located Becks in the wooded area north of the residence. She was taken into custody without further incident and later transported to the Pickaway County Jail.
Stolen Candy Becomes Key Evidence
After returning inside her home, she discovered that a bag of Nerds candy had been taken from her dining room table.
During a search of the suspect’s belongings, deputies reported finding a pink bag of Nerds candy hidden among personal items, which was collected as evidence.
Authorities said no other items appeared to be missing.
Homeowner Shaken
The victim told deputies she was deeply shaken by the incident, noting the suspect entered her home in the middle of the day while she was present.
She expressed concern about her sense of security moving forward, saying she may no longer feel comfortable leaving her doors open while at home.
Ongoing Case
Additional items were recovered at the scene, and the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not yet released formal charges but confirmed the suspect is being held at the Pickaway County Jail.
