We’ve learned new details about the investigation into a man arrested after officers discovered a decaying body near a trail in Sodus, following a tip about a possible murder.
Jared C. Nesmith, 35, of Curry Street in Newark, was taken into custody after police say he tried to run when approached by officers. He’s now charged with murder and several felonies tied to the death and disposal of his roommate, 49-year-old Conan Guard.
Newark Police began investigating on September 30 after someone reported overhearing a disturbing conversation about a killing. That tip led police to Nesmith, who was walking nearby. During questioning, police say Nesmith shared information that led them to the body along Zurich Bog Trail.
Investigators believe the murder happened at a home on Cuyler Street. State Police crime scene teams are now processing that location. Officials say Guard had been stabbed to death, but the body was already decomposing when it was recovered. An autopsy is underway.
Nesmith was arraigned and is being held without bail. Police haven’t released what sparked the violent encounter, but confirmed Guard was the only victim.
A history of violence
This isn’t Nesmith’s first brush with the law — far from it.
He’s been tied to multiple violent incidents over the past four years, including a 2021 attack where he allegedly stalked a woman and later beat and choked her boyfriend at a street corner.
Earlier this year, in April, State Police say Nesmith broke into a home in Arcadia armed with a machete and threatened the resident. He was charged with felony burglary and criminal weapon possession.
In May, Nesmith reportedly struck a man in the face during a fight involving the mother of his child — all while his one-year-old was nearby. That led to charges of assault, harassment, child endangerment, and criminal contempt.
In June, he was arrested again for felony criminal contempt during a domestic dispute, along with menacing and harassment charges.
Ongoing investigation
Newark Police and State Police continue to investigate the murder case. Anyone with information is urged to contact local authorities.
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