Press release
Henderson County Sheriff Botie Hillhouse said he was pleased today when his deputies and Athens Police Officers early this morning stopped the possible burglary of a business, charging two suspects with criminal trespassing with a deadly weapon and possession of illegal drugs.
He said Alex Balajadia, 18, of Longview and Austin Barton, 20, of Tool were arrested shortly after midnight at the Athens Tractor Supply on U.S. Hwy 175.
Deputies Keon Mack and Vann Vanderburg took both men to the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office. Barton was charged with criminal trespassing with a deadly weapon (a shotgun). Balajadia was booked for criminal trespassing with a deadly weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of marijuana and tampering with evidence.
Athens Police were the first to arrive on the scene and quickly detained the men. Officer J. Hutchison found what appeared to be marijuana in the back of his police vehicle where he was holding Balajadia.
Deputy Vanderburg discovered what appeared to be additional marijuana in Barton’s vehicle.
“This is exactly the kind of cooperation Sheriff Hillhouse is hoping for between law enforcement agencies,” said Major Bryan Tower. “Working together, we are making Athens and Henderson County a clean, safe place to work and live.”