Prowler busted after doorbell cams catch columbus break-in spree — Photo 61814404 © Jiri Hera | Dreamstime.com

Man linked to multiple Columbus break-ins and attempted rapes caught after doorbell cam tips

Columbus, OH — A 33-year-old man wanted on a felony warrant for strangulation has been arrested after a string of overnight break-ins and attempted assaults that terrorized a northwest Columbus neighborhood earlier this month, police said Tuesday.

The suspect, identified as Rovan Spears, was seen prowling through backyards and peering into homes between midnight and dawn on January 9, targeting residences along the Hard Road corridor between Sawmill Road and Smoky Row Road. Police say Spears was captured on several doorbell cameras checking for unlocked doors and walking through properties while dressed in dark clothing.

Between 1:00 a.m. and 3:30 a.m., officers responded to two active burglary calls. As the day progressed, additional reports came in from nearby homes, with residents reporting attempted break-ins and suspicious activity.

Thanks to surveillance footage and community tips, investigators were able to identify Spears, who already had a felony warrant issued in a separate case involving strangulation. He was arrested on January 15 and is now facing two counts of aggravated burglary and two counts of attempted rape. Additional charges may be added as the investigation continues.

Columbus Police credited the swift cooperation of local residents for helping track down the suspect. Detectives continue to ask anyone with footage or information to come forward as they piece together the full scope of the incidents.

Spears is being held pending further court proceedings. Police have not said if any of the homes were occupied at the time of the break-ins or whether any additional victims have been identified.

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Key Points

Rovan Spears, 33, was arrested for a series of overnight break-ins and attempted assaults in Columbus
He was caught on security footage checking doors and moving through yards in residential neighborhoods
Spears is charged with two counts of aggravated burglary and two counts of attempted rape, with more charges possible

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

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