MISSOULA — Justin Odean Johnson, wanted by Ravalli County authorities for more than two weeks, was arrested Friday.
Johnson, 40 years old, was arrested at a residence south of Hamilton at noon.
Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton said detectives were investigating a citizen's tip on Johnson's location and confirmed he was hiding there.
Deputies located and arrested Johnson without incident.
Johnson was taken to the Ravalli County Detention Center for criminal felonies of endangerment and criminal mischief.He is also being charged with reckless driving, obstructing a peace officer, resisting arrest, and three contempt of court warrants.
The Ravalli County Sheriff's Office has been looking for Johnson since December 5th, when Johnson ran from officers, including Ravalli County Sheriff's Deputies, Montana Highway Patrol, and Montana FWP Wardens.
Johnson was in possession of a stolen vehicle at that time and escaped by running from law enforcement on foot in the Sapphire foothills east of Corvallis and Hamilton.
During the investigation to locate Johnson, the RCSO discovered numerous thefts and seized many items believed to be stolen.
Peopleare encouraged to inventory construction sites, storage units and outbuildings for property that might have been stolen.
Sheriff Holton thanked the citizens who have provided tips on Johnson's location and especially the RCSO Detectives and Patrol Deputies that have spent considerable time investigating and looking for Johnson for the last 15 days.
Anyone with information regarding Johnson's activities or who discover property stolen are asked to contact the Ravalli County Sheriff's Office at 406-363-3033.
