BRADFORD, Vt. (WCAX) – New charges in federal court are shedding light on a suspicious missing persons investigation in Bradford.
The investigation into what happened to 43-year-old Corey Crooker started as a non-suspicious missing person’s case, but has turned into a criminal investigation now leading to federal gun charges against a 3-time felon living at a home at the center of the case.
Vermont State Police say they have been searching through a home on Old Post Road in Bradford looking for evidence that could result in possible charges for homicide connected to the disappearance of Crooker, who was last seen January 9th.
42-year-old James Nickles Jr. lives at that home with his girlfriend Lisa Akey.
Others at the residence told police they buy drugs from the couple.
During an interview with officers, Akey said that Crooker had been at her house, but she didn’t sell him any drugs and he left with an unknown woman in a dark-colored SUV.
While police were searching the home, they found multiple guns in their possession.
Now Nickles is facing federal charges for being in possession of two firearms as a felon and active drug user. No state homicide charges have been filed.
Police have not said why they believe Crooker’s disappearance could be criminal, other than to say some evidence is leading them in that direction.