An Ames man has been charged with two felony counts of third-degree burglary after he was discovered near the scene of two burglarized homes Nov. 21.

Dennis Norman, who has no permanent address, is currently being held at the Story County Jail on a $21,000 cash bond, said Ames Police Cmdr. Jim Robinson.

Robinson said the Ames Police had increased patrol in the area of South 6th Street, Grand Avenue and Duff Avenue after a series of approximately 15 to 16 burglaries occurred in that area, beginning in early October.

Police received a burglary call from the 2100 block of Polk Dr. Nov. 21 and were able to respond quickly to the call.

“Luckily, because of the number of officers out, we were able to saturate the area,” Robinson said.

Police searched the area and located a van and a man later identified as Norman, Robinson said. Police also recovered evidence from the burglary scene and the surrounding neighborhood that has been linked to Norman.

Robinson said the burglar had mainly taken cash and change from the homes. The burglar also emptied out drawers.

If found guilty, Norman could face up to five years in prison and a $7,500 fine for each charge.

Norman’s arraignment is scheduled for Dec. 9 at 1 p.m. at the Story County Justice Center. According to court records, he does not yet have a lawyer.

Robinson said additional charges could be filed against Norman through the Story County Attorney’s office.