Police say public helped ID suspect in felony case

The Kirksville Police Department would like to make residents aware that their help identifying a suspect regarding several reports of vehicle damage last year has led to a felony charge. On April 12 and 13, 2022, Kirksville Police received reports of slashed tires on seven vehicles in the 400, 500 and 800 blocks of North Franklin Street. The damage to these vehicles totaled just under $2,200 to repair. Police were able to identify a suspect with the aid of the public after releasing the suspect’s photo. The suspect was identified as Michael Douglas Thomas, a 50-year-old male, formerly of Shelby County, Missouri. Kirksville Police applied for an arrest warrant for Michael Douglas Thomas in May 2022, however, he had already fled the area. Michael Douglas Thomas was since charged in Adair County Court with one felony count of property damage. His first court appearance in Adair County was September 27, 2023.