An Angie man was arrested this weekend, after allegedly stealing a boat, according to Chief Deputy Mike Haley of the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Haley said that on Saturday, the WPSO arrested Justin Owens, 29, a resident of Whitetail Road in Angie. The arrest was the result of a reported boat theft from a private boat launch off the Pearl River.

The owner of the boat had been fishing in the area and left the boat tied up for a short period of time, Haley said. Upon returning to the boat, it was discovered that it was missing.

Haley said that WPSO Patrol Sgt. David Cupp and Deputy Tyler Lindsey responded to the theft report and began an immediate investigation, which led to Owens at his residence in Angie. After being confronted by the officers, Owens cooperated and directed the officers to an address in Bogalusa where the boat was recovered, Haley said.

Owens was booked into the Washington Parish Jail, charged with theft of more than $5,000 but less than $25,000. As of Monday afternoon, he remained in jail with his bond set at $10,000.

Haley said that Owens has been in the jail at least five times previously, dating from a May 2008 arrest, with other arrests following in 2011 and 2013. Previous charges included domestic abuse, theft of a vehicle and burglary of an inhabited dwelling.

“Good work, Sergeant Cupp and Deputy Lindsey,” Washington Parish Sheriff Randy Seal said. “It’s always good to solve a crime and be able to put the thief in jail. Owens has chosen a path in life where jail or prison is the destination. I’m so pleased we were able to recover this stolen property and return it to its owner.”