MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a juvenile suspect connected to a residential burglary that occurred earlier this year in the Marion Oaks area.

According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to a reported burglary in May at a residence on Marion Oaks Pass. The investigation revealed that an AR-15 rifle, and a Gerber military-style knife has been stolen from the home.

Detective Rodriguez, assigned to the case, identified 15-year-old Juelz Lee Cotto as a suspect during the course of the investigation. Authorities say that multiple witnesses reported Cotto admitted to committing the burglary and taking the items.

Shortly after the incident, Cotto was reported as a runaway. Detectives believe he may still be in the area and are working to locate him.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information about Cotto’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 352-368-STOP (7867) and reference case number 25-17. Tipsters may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest.

No further details are being released at this time, as the investigation remains active.

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