NATCHEZ — You can’t put a price on peace of mind, but Beau Pré residents have issued a $1,000 reward to catch the man who allegedly victimized their cars and sense of security during the past few months.

Beau Pré is just one of the neighborhoods along U.S. 61 South hit by a car burglar who has been stealing cash and guns from unlocked cars, and breaking windows to rummage through locked cars.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office issued a warrant for the arrest of Willie Edward Knight, 45, 141 Tubman Circle, also known as “Tight Knight,” after recovering a gun belonging to one of the Beau Pre burglary victims.

Mayfield said his team has not been able to catch Knight because he has been hiding in the woods near his home.

Mayfield said ACSO deputies have had surveillance on Knight’s house every day and night since the warrant was issued. The thick, wooded area has also been surveyed by helicopter. He said Knight’s family claims they do not know where he has been hiding.

Mayfield said he has reason to believe one or two people have been assisting Knight while he hides. He said those people will be charged with obstruction of justice or another charge if caught.

Two people who claim to know Knight and his whereabouts recently called ACSO with tips. The most recent caller told deputies Tuesday Knight was near his home.

Mayfield said when ACSO showed up, Knight re-entered the woods.

“I have no fear. We’re going to catch him. We’ve caught him before,” Mayfield said.

“This ain’t (Knight’s) first rodeo.”