Crime Stoppers Seeks Tips Leading to Arrest of Burglary Suspect

CANTON — Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of a man wanted in three county burglaries. Michael Schwankner, 34, of West Tawakoni, is described by authorities as “armed and dangerous.” He’s wanted on a number of felony and parole violation warrants from three counties, unrelated to the three burglaries. Anonymous tips about Schwankner’s whereabouts can be called in to Crime Stoppers at 903-567-STOP (567-7867).

Van Zandt County Sheriff’s deputies said the daylight house burglaries occurred in the Edgewood and Lake Tawakoni areas, and that Schwankner was identified as a suspect thanks to a security camera at one of the houses. The third burglary was interrupted by an alarm, deputies added. A woman who deputies said was Schwankner’s companion in the burglaries has been arrested.

“Crime Stoppers is eager to help the authorities locate and arrest this suspect,” said Andy Flowers, president of Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers. “Between the warrants out for him and the boldness of these burglaries, we need to get him behind bars so people can rest easier. We’re happy to give a generous reward to the caller who can help authorities locate him.”