BUCHANAN — Investigators say they found the body of a missing Berrien County man Wednesday afternoon, and they have one suspect in custody.

Police say foul play was involved in the death of Richard Marbeiter, 56, but they aren't saying how he died.

Marbeiter's friends told police they hadn't talked to him since October. His family filed a missing person's report January 27.

Marbeiter lived alone in rural Buchanan, and owned Doctor Turfgrass Lawn Care.

Investigators spent a good part of the day Tuesday digging in Marbeiter's back yard with a back hoe. They were looking for his body, but didn't find it then.

Edward DePoy, 33, is in custody in connection with the case. He was arrested in South Bend Tuesday night for not checking in with his parole officer.

Detectives interviewed him after he was extradited to Berrien County, and police say Wednesday he confessed to "the circumstances of the death of Marbeiter."

Police describe DePoy as a handyman who worked for Marbeiter. Detectives say DePoy stole personal items, including antiques, furniture and lawn mowers from Marbeiter. Over the past month, investigators say they have recovered stolen vehicles and construction equipment DePoy had sold to other people.

At least one of Marbeiter’s neighbors said he’s surprised, but not scared for his safety.

"I've seen him go by, I've been by the place, just never nothing suspicious,” said Tom Dickey, who lives nearby. “He had a lawn care business and that pretty much was it, just like we all are — we're pretty quiet and keep to ourselves.”

Investigators continued to comb the property Wednesday evening.