The Ames Police Department has arrested a suspect who is believed to be connected to an Ames burglary, kidnapping and robbery.

Joseph Malone, 32, originally from Chicago, was arrested and charged with first-degree robbery, second-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary and four counts of forgery, said Cmdr. Jim Robinson of the Ames Police Department.

On Dec. 19, 2003, Jacob Williams, 3319 Story St., woke up to find two men threatening him with a handgun, Robinson said.

The two suspects forced Williams into a closet, Robinson said.

The men took some cash, electronic equipment, a shotgun, checks and personal identification from Williams, Robinson said.

He said the identification was recovered but the other items remain missing.

Robinson said Malone was discovered on surveillance videotapes using forged checks at two convenience stores.

Police said Malone has been living in various residences in the Ames area for about a year but has no permanent Ames address. They have not identified any other suspects, but hope to receive help from the public.

“We’re still working on the case,” Robinson said. “We are hopeful that we will be able to identify the accomplice, and we’re hopeful that we will be able to resolve the second robbery case,” he said.

Another home invasion/robbery case, from Jan. 21, in which two people knocked on the door of 3106 Lincoln Way and then robbed the house, is being investigated by police, Robinson said. He said suspects displayed a handgun at that incident as well.

“We are requesting the assistance from the public if they have any knowledge about any of the robberies involved,” Robinson said.

Malone was booked at the Ames Police Department and transported to the Story County Sheriff’s Office, where he is being held on $250,000.

If convicted, Malone could face up to 95 years in prison and a $7,500 fine for each count of forgery.

Jacob Williams could not be reached for comment Tuesday.