LAFAYETTE, Ga. — Two LaFayette Police Department officers have received commendations after an investigation stemming from a suspicious-person call led authorities to connect a suspect to multiple entering-auto thefts in the area.

According to the department, Sergeant Simpson and Patrolman McDaniel responded on Aug. 7 to a report of a suspicious man loitering on the back porch of a residence.

The officers arrested the individual, who police said was found in possession of a handgun and a large amount of cash.

Following the initial arrest, Simpson and McDaniel continued investigating and ultimately linked the suspect to multiple entering-auto thefts that had recently occurred in the immediate area, according to police.

The officers gathered statements and evidence, completed follow-up reports and conducted an additional interview with the suspect at the jail.

The LaFayette Police Department credited the officers’ continued investigation and teamwork with helping develop the additional cases.

Simpson and McDaniel were each presented with a Letter of Commendation recognizing their efforts and service to the community.

Police did not release the suspect’s name or specify what charges were filed in connection with the investigation.