AUBURN, Ala. - On Sept. 22, 2026, the Auburn Police Department, with the assistance of the Opelika Police Department, arrested Romen Bentley Cockrell, 31, from Opelika, Alabama, on the charges of burglary third degree and theft of property fourth degree.

The arrest stems from an incident that occurred in the 700 block of North Dean Road. In the early morning hours of Sept. 20, 2026, Auburn Police officers responded to an alarm at a local business. Upon arrival, officers discovered damage to the business and determined that an individual had entered the building unlawfully. A small amount of currency and several nicotine products were reported stolen.

Through the course of the investigation, Cockrell was identified as the suspect. Warrants were obtained, and Cockrell was taken into custody by the Opelika Police Department. He was then transported to the Lee County Jail where he is being held on a $4,000 bond.

All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.