Chris Clark, 21, and Steven Silletti, 17, both of 1106 W. Third Street, were arrested on charges of possession of drug paraphernalia near what police officials described as a hot spot for the recent burglaries.

“Due to the recent surge in burglaries in the city, the street crimes unit and patrol division have been increasing their presence in the business areas that have been affected,” said Sgt. Tony Everett, public information office with the Big Spring Police Department. “Monday, just after midnight, these officers contacted two male subjects in an area where numerous burglaries had occurred.

“The two subjects were on foot, and, when detained, officers found them in possession of drug paraphernalia and evidence that they may have been involved in the burglaries. The subjects were then taken into custody.”

Everett said the pair later confessed to taking part in the burglaries, helping investigators clear a number of recent break-ins.

“They were interviewed and both confessed their involvement,” said Everett. “As of this time, these arrests have cleared two residential burglaries, a stolen vehicle and seven business burglaries. The investigation is still ongoing, and could point to more suspects and more charges.”

Everett said the pair were not connected to the recent rash of church burglaries. Among the churches burglarized are Hillcrest Baptist Church, College Baptist, Birdwell Baptist, Eastside Baptist, 14th and Main Church of Christ and the Jesus Name United Pentecostal Church.

Local businesses that have been burglarized include Johansen Nursery, Learning Tree Academy, Stunning Wear and More, Southwest Tool, AKL Wind Energy, Dollar General and Dell’s Cafe, according to law enforcement officials.

Bond has been set at $44,000 for Clark and $41,000 for Silletti.

According to BSPD Lt. Terry Chamness, local law enforcement is also looking for another suspect wanted in connection with the burglaries.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Bobby Baker, 33, of Big Spring, for second-degree felony burglary of a habitation.

Baker is described as a white male; 6 feet, 2 inches tall; weighing approximately 200 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes.

According to officials with the Big Spring Area Crimestoppers, information leading to Baker’s arrest could net the tipster a cash reward of up to $1,000 if it leads to his arrest and indictment.

Crimestoppers can be reached at 263-TIPS (8477). The Big Spring Police Department can be contacted at 264-2550.

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it