Barnstead K9, Belknap Sheriff's Office locate fugitive hiding in residence

BARNSTEAD — Local police, in collaboration with the Belknap County Sheriff’s Office, arrested a fugitive on Wednesday who had been evading capture for several months.

The target of the operation, Jedadiah Corliss, is facing charges of simple assault, criminal mischief, possession of drugs and resisting arrest.

A press release issued Thursday by the Belknap County Sheriff’s Office described how Corliss had “eluded deputies by employing various concealment techniques,” which had prevented previous apprehension efforts.

However, a “thorough investigation,” as the release described, produced a location where Corliss had been seen. When law enforcers knocked on the door, no one answered, leading officers to force entry into the residence. Motivated, perhaps, by the use of Barnstead’s K9 team, Corliss ultimately announced his presence and surrendered himself.

Sheriff Bill Wright said the incident should serve as an example to others.

“If you hide, we will find you. It’s better to turn yourself in than to evade arrest. The Belknap County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of our community, and we will employ all necessary resources to bring those evading justice to account.”