Jonesborough, TN – A Limestone man was arrested Monday after Washington County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported burglary in progress near Jonesborough, according to the sheriff’s office.
According to Sheriff Keith Sexton, deputies were called to a home on Jimmy Keys Road on Monday, January 13, after the homeowner returned and found the residence’s door broken and a man inside the home. Deputies identified the suspect as Derek J. Keys, 35, of Limestone.
Authorities said the homeowner had previously trespassed Keys from the property on August 11, 2024. When confronted on Monday, Keys allegedly walked away toward his own residence located across the street.
The homeowner then discovered security cameras from the residence placed outside in the yard, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies made contact with Keys shortly after and said he admitted to being inside the residence.
Keys was taken into custody and charged with aggravated burglary and aggravated criminal trespassing. He was transported to the Washington County Detention Center, where he is being held on a $5,000 bond.
Court records show Keys is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, January 14.
The incident occurred in the Jonesborough area of Washington County, part of the Tri-Cities region of Northeast Tennessee, which includes nearby Johnson City and Bristol.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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