The story of Clarence Adams. (Spoilers in the Wikipedia article)

TLDW - spoilers!

spoiler

The culprit of a 15 year spree of burglaries is found to be none other than one of the most respected members of the community Clarence Adams. At the time of the burglaries, Adams was not only a selectmen of his town of Chester, but also one of the most determined in the criminal’s apprehension offering his own money for their capture.

However, Adams is caught after his 15 year spree when he accidentally triggers another town member’s trap in the towns mill and is shot in the leg.

After his death, rumors came out about Adams’ ability to cheat death. 19 years after his death, burglaries were still being blamed on him.