MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A burglar who attempted to break into a Crockett County house was chased by a 12-year-old girl last Thursday, according to the Crockett County Sheriff’s Department.

The sheriff’s department said just after 6 p.m., Robert W. Sills attempted to break into the residence.

Robert Sills. Courtesy: Crockett Co Sheriff’s Office

Deputies said that after the homeowners spotted him, he ran to a nearby soybean field, and the homeowner’s daughter chased Sills.

“She was with her grandmother, but the suspect was trying to break into her home, and the grandmother and the 12-year-old began a pursuit to try to detain this individual for law enforcement,” said Public Information Officer Stephen Sutton of the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office.

“A citizen, who happened to be passing by, saw the pursuit and stopped to help, and the grandmother relayed to him what was going on. He went around the corner to another road, and he saw the 12-year-old girl still in pursuit,” said PIO Sutton.

The Good Samaritan who was able to grab Sills until a farmer showed up with zip ties to further restrain the suspect.

The identity of the 12-year-old is not being released, but neither she nor her grandmother was hurt.

When deputies arrived, they found that Sills had an outstanding arrest warrant.

Sills has now been charged with criminal trespass and aggravated attempted burglary in addition to his warrant.

He is scheduled to appear in Corckett County Circuit Court this week.

“We don’t encourage juveniles to take matters in their own hands…we prefer for them to call 911 and let the authorities do their jobs. In this particular case she was not hurt and her courage and bravery is exemplary,” said PIO Sutton.  

“This incident serves as a testament to the courage and resourcefulness of our community. It’s heartening to see citizens step up to protect their neighborhood. Our deputies commend the bravery of the young girl and appreciate the assistance rendered by witnesses. I am especially glad the young lady was not hurt by this nuisance in our community,” said Sheriff Troy Klyce.

Deputies were also assisted by the Bells Police Department.