An arrest warrant has been issued for Jeremy Barnes, a 36-year-old man from Lakefield, following serious firearm-related charges. Barnes is facing multiple felony counts, including possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, illegal possession of firearms, and altering or removing serial numbers on a weapon. The charges are connected to incidents that took place between September 2 and September 18.
The case began when the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received information suggesting there were weapons and ammunition at a residence in Jackson County. Investigators later identified Barnes as the owner of the home. Because of a prior conviction, Barnes is legally prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
On September 18, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Barnes’ home and vehicles. During the search, officers uncovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition. Authorities reported finding several firearms wrapped in blankets, including a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, a .22-caliber rifle, a 7.62-caliber bolt action rifle, and a 20-gauge shotgun. In addition to these, police discovered a .22-caliber single bolt action rifle, a .223-caliber rifle equipped with a scope, and a 12-gauge short-barreled shotgun.
One of the most concerning discoveries was a .40-caliber firearm with its serial number filed off, which is a felony offense on its own because it makes the weapon untraceable. Officers also found a large garbage bag in the backseat of a vehicle filled with ammunition for different types of rifles and shotguns. The quantity and variety of the weapons and ammunition raised serious concerns for investigators.
Following the search, Barnes was arrested in Dickinson County, Iowa, on new charges. As a result, Jackson County authorities issued a warrant for his arrest related to the firearms case. He was scheduled to make his court appearance in Jackson County Fifth District Court.
Cases like this highlight the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms but still manage to obtain them. Federal and state laws strictly ban convicted felons from owning or having access to weapons, not only to reduce the risk of repeat offenses but also to protect public safety. The discovery of multiple firearms, including one with its serial number removed, and a large supply of ammunition adds to the seriousness of the charges Barnes now faces.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has not released further details about the Iowa charges, but Barnes will likely face legal consequences in both states. His situation underscores how seriously courts and law enforcement agencies treat firearm offenses, especially when they involve individuals who are already barred from owning weapons.
The case will now move forward through the judicial process, where prosecutors will present the evidence gathered during the search. If convicted, Barnes could face significant prison time and fines, given the number of charges and the seriousness of the allegations. For the community, the case also serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the role of law enforcement in preventing illegal weapons from circulating in neighborhoods.
