NH Fugitives Hid Under Bed, In Barn: Marshals

LEBANON, NH — Two recent New Hampshire "Fugitive of the Week" suspects were captured after U.S. Marshals said they found one hiding under a bed and another hiding in a barn. Jerry Roberts, 33, of Lebanon, and James Smith, 36, of Franklin had multiple warrants, authorities said.

On Monday, Roberts was found hiding under a bed at a Lebanon apartment on Mount Support Road, Marshals said. He had warrants for failing to maintain his sex offender registration and a parole violation. His criminal record includes a conviction for aggravated felonious sexual assault. He has been featured as a "Fugitive of the Week" since February.

"At this residence, the occupants refused to open the door or acknowledge the presence of law enforcement for over 15 minutes," Marshals said in a statement. "The apartment door was eventually opened by the residents and the apartment was searched. Jerry Roberts was found hiding under the bed with several items placed neatly in front of him, in an attempt to further hide Mr. Roberts. Roberts was arrested without further incident and turned over to the Lebanon Police Department."

On Tuesday, Smith was found hiding in the loft of a barn in Franklin. He had warrants for a methamphetamine charge, possession of heroin, criminal trespassing, willful concealment and failure to appear in court. He has been featured as a "Fugitive of the Week" since October.

"After many months and many leads, information was developed ... pointing to a residence on Salisbury Road (in Franklin)," Marshals said. "The residents of this house denied knowing who James Smith was, and allowed officers to search the residence. After the house was searched, an adjacent barn was also checked. It was during this search, that Smith was discovered hiding in the loft. As task force officers closed in, Smith attempted to flee out a window into the waiting arms of law enforcement below."

Photo: Jerry Roberts (left) and James Smith. (Credit: U.S. Marshals)