2021 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT HONORS CORPORAL DWAYNE DIETZ AS RECEIPIENT OF 2020 CHIEF STEVEN “SMITTY” SMITH OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD, RECOGNIZES OTHER OFFICERS
Officer Derek K. Yang, 2020 Rookie Officer Of The Year
Officer Robert S. Godek And Detective Karcin L. Vick-Dunn, 2020 Officer Of The Year Finalists
Corporal Dwayne A. Dietz, 2020 Chief Steven “Smitty” Smith Officer Of The Year
BROWNS HILL AME ZION CHURCH PROVIDES LUNCH AND PERSONALIZED CARDS FOR LOCUST OFFICERS
01/11/2021 – The Locust Police Department also sends our most heartfelt thank you to members and the children of Brown Hill AME Zion Church here in Locust for thinking of our officers and department this weekend. They provided our officers a ton of Subway sandwiches, and children of the church created some very thoughtful and heartfelt cards for our officers as well. We are a united Locust community and we are honored and privileged to serve and protect you.
LOCUST DETECTIVES MAKE ARREST IN DECEMBER 2020 MURPHY EXPRESS ARMED ROBBERY
01/05/2021
LPD PRESS RELEASE MURPHY EXPRESS
***ATTENTION!!!*** Due to circumstances related to Covid-19 and Covid-19 regulations, the Coats By Cops distribution event scheduled for January 9th (Tomorrow) has been postponed. Officer Griffith is hoping to have this event scheduled some time in February. Stay tuned!!
***If your child or a child you know is in desperate need of winter items immediately, please contact the police department at 704-888-4744 Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and we will assist you!***
2020 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
FOR MORE REGULAR DEPARTMENT NEWS AND UPDATES, VISIT THE LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT FACEBOOK PAGE:
https://www.facebook.com/Locust-Police-Department-971105932951713/
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT COORDINATES WINTER CLOTHING DONATION EVENT
The Locust Police Department is hosting COATS BY COPS, a donation event coordinated by Locust Elementary School Resource Officer Allison Griffith to assure area children in need have a winter coat and accessories for the upcoming cold weather months.
Donations of children’s and youth coats, jackets, scarfs, gloves, hoodies, and pullovers will be accepted at the Locust Police Department from now until December 31st, 2020. See attached flyer for more details!
On January 9th, 2021, the Locust Police Department will host an event to provide these donated items to any children and youth in need. Event details TBD based on current status of Covid pandemic and associated requirements.
DONATION REQUEST TO HONOR CHIEF SMITH AND ASSIST HIS FAMILY
It would not be possible to give individual thanks to the multitude of organizations and citizens that have paid their respects and sent their well-wishes to honor Chief Smith however the men and women of the Locust Police Department want you all to know how much we appreciate all the love, compassion, support, and assistance you’ve shown to Chief Smith’s family and our entire department during this extremely difficult time.
If your heart is led, please consider making a donation to Melissa Smith or the Riley And Hunter Smith College Fund. For the college fund, donations can be made at any State Employees’ Credit Union. Any type of donation to the Smith family or the college fund can also be sent to the Locust Police Department at PO Box 190, Locust, NC 28097 or in-person at 186 Ray Kennedy Drive, Locust.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT HONORS FOUR VETERAN OFFICERS
The Locust Police Department strives to recognize officers who dedicate significant years of service to the Locust Police Department and the City of Locust. Full-time officers who work for the Locust Police Department for ten years will receive a uniform ribbon to show our appreciation for their dedicated service. Each 5 years of service following, they will again be honored. On November 23rd, the Locust Police Department recognized four officers who have dedicated at least ten years to the City of Locust. The officers honored which includes their beginning of tour were:
These officer’s dedication remaining with the same agency results in highly trained and experienced officers that assures the city is receiving well-qualified service and protection, as well as quality supervision, oversight and mentoring to our younger officers. This dedicated service is also a testament to the immense support city administration and the Locust City Council provides the Locust Police Department resulting in officers who want to continue their careers dedicated to the City of Locust.
The Locust Police Department congratulates all of these officers and we sincerely appreciate their continued service!
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES NEW PATROL OFFICER
The Locust Police Department welcomes Officer Hunter Griffith as the newest member of our agency. Officer Griffith will serve as a patrol officer with the department on Sergeant Chad Whitley’s patrol rotation and will begin his field training with Sergeant Whitley on October 21st.
Officer Griffith is a Stanly County native and graduate of West Stanly High School. Officer Griffith attended Stanly Community College and graduated with an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice Technology. Also, while in school Officer Griffith was a member of the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Cadet Program where he advanced to the rank of Captain. Officer Griffith comes from a law enforcement family, and both his father and uncle retired as Captains from the Albemarle Police Department.
Officer Griffith graduated from the Basic Law Enforcement Training program (BLET) at Stanly Community College in June 2018 where he was awarded the class physical fitness and top academic awards. He has served for the last two and half years as a patrol officer with the Albemarle Police Department where he earned training certifications as a RADAR and Intox operator, as well as completing certification in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing among other completed training courses. While at APD, Officer Griffith also served on the department’s SWAT unit for approximately a year and a half.
Officer Griffith was a highly recruited candidate while in Stanly’s BLET program, and we are elated that he chose the Locust Police Department to continue his career. Welcome to the LPD family Officer Hunter Griffith!!!
LONG-TIME LOCUST OFFICERS HONORED WITH STATE CERTIFICATIONS
CHIEF SMITH PASSES AWAY
07/22/2020
PRESS RELEASE
It is with the utmost tremendous sadness that the Locust Police Department must officially announce the passing of our Chief of Police, Steven R. “Smitty” Smith. Chief Smith passed away last evening at Atrium Health Cabarrus in Concord. Chief Smith was off-duty at the time of his death. He was 45 years old.
Chief Smith was a Locust native who began his career with the Locust Police Department before working tours with the Monroe and Kannapolis Police Departments. He returned to the Locust Police Department in 2007 as a patrol officer. Chief Smith was promoted to the ranks of Sergeant and Captain at the department before being appointed Chief of Police at the end of December 2019. Chief Smith succeeded retiring Locust Chief Frank Hartsell who along with every member of the Locust Police Department endorsed “Smitty” for the position.
Chief Smith was an outstanding decision maker and leader who held an extraordinary vision for the future of the Locust Police Department. In just six months as Chief of Police, “Smitty” had been consistently praised for his performance by the members of the Locust Police Department, Locust city administration as well as the elected members of the City Council of Locust.
Chief Smith was an “officer’s Chief” who was able to combine the perfect mixture of leadership with camaraderie. One of the ideals Chief Smith leaned heavily on was knowing that the patrol division is the heart and soul of a police department, and he knew that the department’s success and how the department would be viewed by the public was dependent on the effectiveness of its patrol officers. Chief Smith’s goal was to develop or enhance the most well-equipped, well-trained, community driven patrol officers possible and every single member of the Locust Police Department responded so positively to that leadership.
“Smitty” was adored by his peers in the Stanly and surrounding county’s law enforcement community as well as by so many members of the Locust community that had known him his entire life. “Smitty” was always a pleasure to be around and one of the most humorous storytellers you would ever meet. Chief always seemed to have the perfect “one-liner” for any occasion. All of the members of the Locust Police Department will miss him so much.
In the coming days and weeks, we ask you to please keep Chief Smith’s wife, children, family, and friends as well as the members of the Locust Police Department in your thoughts and prayers. Funeral arrangements are to be determined.
GETTING TO KNOW THE LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT
As part of a summer 2020 series, a different Locust officer will be featured each Friday to give you more insight on the men and women of the Locust Police Department. For our first addition, we fittingly start with the head of our agency;
Chief of Police Steven Smith
Serving Since:
1997
Law Enforcement Agency Experience:
Locust Police Department (Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Captain, Chief of Police), Kannapolis Police Department (Patrol Officer), Monroe Police Department (Patrol Officer)
Education:
AAS Criminal Justice Technology – Stanly Community College
Law Enforcement Management Academy – South Piedmont Community College
BLET – Stanly Community College
Other Achievements:
NC Intermediate and Advanced Law Enforcement Certification
Did You Know? – Chief Smith is a Locust native who is known by most in the Locust area simply as “Smitty”. Chief Smith started his career with the Locust Police Department in 1997 before stints with the Monroe and Kannapolis Police Departments. Chief Smith returned to Locust in 2007. Chief Smith’s hobbies off-duty include camping, hunting, and fishing.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
The Locust Police Department (LPD) is accepting applications for the position of Patrol Officer (PO1). Qualified applicants may be invited to participate in the interview process, which includes (but is not limited to) extensive oral interviews and background investigation, as well as medical and psychological assessments. The starting salary for basic entry level officers is $38,000 and a higher starting salary for officers with extensive experience, training, and education. The City of Locust is one of the fastest growing municipalities in North Carolina. As the city continues to grow, the Locust Police Department will continue to expand as well resulting in more promotional opportunities, specialized appointments, and salary potential in the future. Apply today to be a member of the most respected law enforcement agency in Stanly County! For application inquiries and process please contact Assistant Chief of Police Shew through email at jbshew@locustnc.com or by phone at 704-888-4744.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT RESUMES GOLF CART REGISTRATIONS/RENEWALS JULY 1ST, FINGERPRINT SERVICE STILL SUSPENDED
**Announcement From The Locust Police Department**
Reference – Required Golf Cart Registrations & Fingerprint Service
Since April 1st due to Covid-19 and the closure of the Locust Government Center to the public, the Locust Police Department had suspended golf cart registrations/renewals and our public fingerprint service.
The Locust Police Department announces the following:
Golf Cart Registrations/Renewals
On July 1st, 2020 the Locust Police Department will resume golf cart registrations and renewals at the Locust Government Center. Please see the link below in reference to the requirements to register golf carts inside Locust city limits if you wish to operate them on city and neighborhood streets. For any new residents, this is not a new ordinance and has been required for many years. Registration and renewal is required annually at a cost of $20 and annual registration term is July through June. Please inquire about circumstances where a prorated registration fee may apply. Golf cart must also be added to an insurance policy and proof of insurance will be required. Please contact 704-888-4744 or Asst. Chief Shew at jbshew@locustnc.com if you have any other questions or to schedule an appointment for registration/renewal. Scheduling an appointment for registration is required.
https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/…/late…/locust_nc/0-0-0-810…
Fingerprint Service
The Locust Police Department fingerprint service is still suspended until further notice. We are in the process of evaluating this program to decide how we would like to proceed going forward. We anticipate resuming this program at some point in the future in some form. Please contact the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office to inquire about having fingerprints completed through their agency.
CITY OF LOCUST INSTALLS NEW NO PARKING SIGNS
The City of Locust recently installed new prohibited parking signs in multiple Locust subdivisions and neighborhoods. These signs, and particularly the verbiage of the signs satisfy a requirement in our city ordinance which prohibits on-street parking. Per Locust city ordinance, parking on the streets of neighborhoods or subdivisions in Locust where these signs are displayed is a violation of city ordinance which can result in a fine, the vehicle being towed, or both.
The Locust Police Department is well aware that the issue of on-street parking usually results in a “we’re darned if we do, and darned if we don’t” situation when it comes to enforcement. In our experience it always appears that roughly half of a subdivision is against residents parking on the street while the other half is against the enforcement of it.
The Locust Police Department does not conduct dedicated patrol operations to seek out parking violators however if we do receive complaints about on-street parking in violation of the ordinance, we must investigate those complaints, ask the violating resident/visitor to comply, and take enforcement actions if they choose not to. Our officers however would always much rather work with the individual(s) so they understand the violation and are given the opportunity to move the vehicle parked illegally without additional enforcement provided it is not a recurrent and regular violation.
We will also remind our residents that temporary parking permits are available at the Locust Government Center for on-street parking in the event you are having a party or gathering (post Covid-19 regulations). Please contact 704-888-4744 Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm to apply for a temporary parking permit or if you have additional questions about temporary parking permits or City of Locust parking ordinances. We will also remind however that the Locust City Council approves and passes all ordinances for the City of Locust and the Locust Police Department has no control over the existence or revision of city ordinances.
Below you will find a link to City of Locust parking ordinances. Also below, the neighborhoods/subdivisions where no parking on street signs have been posted as well as four additional areas where signs will be installed soon.
https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/…/late…/locust_nc/0-0-0-674…
SIGNS INSTALLED:
– Town Center Apartments (Prohibits parking on street in front of apartments on Town Centre Drive and Ardsley Drive)
– Locust Valley (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– The Meadows (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– Whispering Hills Phase 1 (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– Meadowcreek Village (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– Redah Acres (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– Whitney (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– King’s Heights (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood which would include areas identified as Sherwood Park)
SIGNS TO BE INSTALLED SOON:
– Whispering Hills Phase 2 (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– Redbridge (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood)
– Meadowcreek Village Chilkoot Lane (Prohibits parking on street on all streets in neighborhood including streets of additional phase off of Chilkoot)
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT COMMENTS ON ALLEGED PROTESTS SCHEDULED FOR LOCUST AND ONGOING PROTESTS/RIOTS OVER THE DEATH OF GEORGE FLOYD
June 2nd, 2020 – The Locust Police Department completely understands all questions and concerns related to numerous Facebook posts regarding alleged planned activities last night in Locust. We had absolutely zero confirmed credible information related to these activities however out of an abundance of caution we did arrange or stage extra resources and officers in Locust in the event there was any legitimacy to the posts. Now in the morning after, we can 100% confirm there was zero truth to any of the posts that we observed. Initially last evening, we were not in the position to post anything to dispel the claims being made as we were still assessing if there was any legitimacy to them. We can assure everyone if an allegation of a planned event is made and we can confirm the threat as being legitimate we will always try to get that information out to the general public.
Specifically regarding the post made about Locust Police going door to door to tell residents to stay inside, we first wanted to confirm with every one of our officers that none of them had engaged in that activity (Which would have been an independent action by an officer, and not an order or directive issued). Once we felt confident that had not occurred we were comfortable posting that nothing about the post aside from extra officers being out and about was accurate. No posts about busloads of people being dropped off in Locust were accurate. No businesses were barricaded. No businesses closed early or if they did, it was not at our direction. No SWAT or SRT teams were called in. We may be missing some other allegations made, but essentially we feel comfortable saying that unless it involved additional officers than usual being out in Locust last evening, any posts of alleged activities planned or occurring were not true.
In the future, for those that want to post activities allegedly planned or allegedly occurring in Locust that they “heard from a friend of a friend” or “through the grapevine”, or for those that share these posts, the Locust Police Department would greatly appreciate a direct call to provide those “tips” as opposed to the decision to post or share on Facebook to spread. You can contact the Locust Police Department at 704-888-4744 Monday-Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, or 24 hours a day at 704-986-3700 for non-emergencies and 911 for emergencies.
The Locust Police Department is extremely grateful and appreciative to the outstanding show of support and assistance from Sheriff Jeff Crisco and the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, Chief Corie Faggart and the Stanfield Police Department, and the offering of assistance if needed by Sheriff Van Shaw and the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office.
We are also so appreciative of the members of our community who have shown their support of our department and officers through social media posts, stopping by to say a kind word, pray with us, and donate food that most of us probably didn’t need to eat but were so grateful for. During this current time of events, that support is so humbling and meaningful to us beyond adequate words to express.
To close, we as a department have not posted lengthy statements about the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd or the protests and rioting that have occurred since. We are an agency that strongly believes in the value of community policing and working side by side with both the residents and visitors of Locust to stop, prevent, and solve crime, and to have open communication about all facets of our department and activities when at all possible. Additionally, we police in Locust by the strict enforcement of our North Carolina laws while using sound police discretion and always the fair, moral, and ethical treatment of all we come in contact with regardless of their race or ethnicity. We also strive to have the most well-trained officers in our county, and the vast majority of our officers were born and raised in or near the community that we serve. The rest of us “got here as soon as we could”.
The death of Mr. Floyd should not have occurred. The officer(s) involved in Mr. Floyd’s death will now rightfully face justice. Peaceful protesting of Mr. Floyd’s death and the desire for reasonable changes in policing is welcome and protected by our United States’ Constitution. Violent rioting, the destruction of property, looting, and assaults are criminal acts that do not honor Mr. Floyd, do not influence reasonable changes in policing, they are not protected acts, and they are not okay.
The Locust Police Department will always be here when you need us, and we try our absolute best to leave you alone when you don’t. Either way, we will serve and protect you and our great city every single day.
LOCUST OFFICER COMPLETES MASTER’S DEGREE
May 8th, 2020 – Locust PD Officer Christopher McDaniel completed his Masters of Science in Criminal Justice degree as well as a Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from East Carolina University. Officer McDaniel “graduated” in a virtual ceremony Friday due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Officer McDaniel is a 25+ year veteran of law enforcement with prior service as a Captain of detention facilities with both the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office and Stanly County Sheriff’s Office. Officer McDaniel was previously awarded the advanced law enforcement certification by both the NC Sheriff’s and Criminal Justice Training and Standards Commission, and is also a certified law enforcement instructor with the state. Officer McDaniel plans to retire from law enforcement in October and will be relocating to Florida where he intends to pursue teaching criminal justice classes. Way to go Officer McDaniel!
ARREST MADE IN LOCUST DRUG INVESTIGATION
May 6th, 2020 – In March 2020, the Locust Police Department began receiving multiple complaints related to alleged drug use, sales and distribution activity in a Locust subdivision. Officers and investigators from the Locust Police Department conducted a two-month investigation into the alleged activity with the assistance of the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and Stanfield Police Department. During the investigation, probable cause was established that drugs were being sold at a residence in the sub-division.
On May 7th, 2020, Detectives with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division executed a search warrant at the residence along with officers from the Locust Police Department and Stanfield Police Department. Mr. Jaquan Ingram, the subject of our investigation, was on-scene at the time and was apprehended without incident. A search of vehicles on the premises as well as the residence was conducted. Approximately one pound of suspected marijuana and marijuana/THC products, more than $2600 in currency, drug paraphernalia/distribution products, firearm accessories including an extended ammunition magazine, and stolen property from a Locust incident occurring in January 2020 were found and seized during the search. The Locust Police Department offers our most sincere appreciation for the tremendous and highly skilled assistance of the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and the support assistance of the Stanfield Police Department during this investigation.
Mr. Ingram was booked into the Stanly County Jail and formally charged with two counts of felony maintaining a vehicle/dwelling for the distribution of controlled substance, felony possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, simple possession of marijuana related products, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of stolen goods. Mr. Ingram was given a $10,000 secured bond and an initial court date of July 14th. Mr. Ingram is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
FORMER LOCUST ASSISTANT CHIEF OF POLICE ERIC THOMAS PASSES AWAY
May 4th, 2020 – The Locust Police Department is extremely saddened to announce the passing of 35-plus year veteran Stanly County law enforcement officer and former Locust Assistant Chief of Police Eric C. Thomas. Chief Thomas worked as our Assistant Chief from 2010-2015 and again as a reserve officer following his retirement from full-time law enforcement in 2018 and 2019. Although Chief Thomas worked the majority of his career for the Albemarle Police Department and Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, the positive impact he had on the Locust Police Department as an agency and the officers who worked under him during the five years he served as Assistant Chief is beyond measure. Many of our current officers who had the privilege to work directly with Chief Thomas have patterned so many of their philosophies and methods after the way Chief Thomas operated as an officer, an investigator, and an administrator, and the Locust Police Department still today conducts our daily operations in many aspects based on the contributions of Chief Thomas and the example he set.
In 2016, current Locust Assistant Chief of Police (then Detective) Jeff Shew nominated Chief Thomas to be the first recipient of the Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation Outstanding Career Service Award. Below you will find Chief Shew’s nomination submission for Chief Thomas in its entirety. We can think of no better way to sum up Eric Thomas as an officer and a person and we hope you will take the opportunity to read it.
In our opinion Chief Thomas is not only a Stanly County law enforcement legend but also the greatest law enforcement officer in the history of our county. We will all miss so much his knowledge, his approach, his steadiness, his stories, and his friendship but just like the sigh of relief we used to breathe whenever Chief Thomas would show up on a serious scene or investigation, we know in heaven as Chief Thomas rolled up they also proclaimed, “Okay…..we’re good now”.
2016 OUTSTANDING CAREER SERVICE AWARD
“I, Detective Jeff Shew of the Locust Police Department nominate Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Captain Eric Thomas for the 2016 Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation Outstanding Career Service Award. Eric Thomas, currently a Captain with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office has been a staple in Stanly County law enforcement for more than 30 years. Because Captain Thomas always shies away from taking any credit or ever wanting any accolades for his accomplishments, I’m unsure of the exact length of time of his service or how long he served where. I do know that Captain Thomas has been a patrol officer, deputy, detective, supervisor, captain, assistant chief, and chief deputy in his tenure that has included the Oakboro Police Department, Albemarle Police Department, Locust Police Department, and Stanly County Sheriff’s Office. During that same time period he also served as director of the Basic Law Enforcement Program at Stanly Community College for several years.
Captain Thomas is known for his wit, his stories, and his lessons on what you USED to be able to do in law enforcement that you CAN’T do in law enforcement today. More importantly however, Captain Thomas is also known for his law enforcement knowledge, always having a solution to offer or at least the person he knows that can get you a solution, and his willingness to provide guidance regardless of the officer you are or the agency you work for. I can without hesitation say with complete confidence that there is no law enforcement officer in Stanly County that is more respected than Captain Eric Thomas. That respect has been earned through an honorable career of serving and protecting the citizens of Stanly County, quality and ethical police work, and the unwavering willingness to assist other officers that represents the brotherhood of the job that we do.
In 2010, Captain Thomas was hired by the Locust Police Department as detective and assistant chief. As word spread of the hire I, who am not originally from the Stanly County area questioned “Who’s Eric Thomas?” As then Assistant Chief Thomas began his tenure with Locust I watched how meticulously he handled investigations, how much knowledge he was able to impart any time a question was asked, and how well respected he was in the field. During that time period which were my first few years as an officer in Stanly County, regardless of the type of call or investigation we responded to, when Chief Thomas arrived I would always breathe a sigh of relief and think to myself, “okay, we’re good now”. During the five years he spent at Locust, among the hundreds of investigations Chief Thomas conducted, I watched him tediously pour over months of financial records to make an arrest in a felony embezzlement case. I watched Chief Thomas theorize how a suspect entered a small opening under a garage door to steal a car, then based on that theory used fingerprint powder to find a palm print that resulted in the arrest of a suspect not even from Stanly County two years later. I watched Chief Thomas fill notebooks with investigative documents on cases that resulted in no prosecution just because he knew his job was to investigate every incident brought before him to the fullest. I watched Chief Thomas always answer the phone regardless of what time it was and respond if he was needed. I watched Chief Thomas fiercely defend Locust officers in situations that included traffic stops with disgruntled drivers. I watched Chief Thomas operate a meticulously organized evidence room. And I watched Chief Thomas compile immensely thorough case files for Locust officers just so the district attorney’s office would have as much respect for the job we did as possible. In those five years at Locust, I learned exactly who Eric Thomas is. Eric Thomas is the officer that you point to when you’re talking to a rookie officer and say “That’s who you want to learn from”…….”That’s the type of officer you want to strive to become.”
There’s a saying that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”. When Captain Thomas left Locust to return to the Sheriff’s Office in 2015, I was assigned to take over the position of detective. This role included handling the evidence room as well as department case files. When I began the position, I didn’t look to any training I had received, and I didn’t look to create my own way of doing things. What I looked at and what I thought to myself is “How did Eric Thomas do it?”, and I did it that way. Based on my experience I knew that however Captain Thomas had done things, that’s how things should be done.
There’s not an agency in Stanly County law enforcement that can say they weren’t made a better agency by Captain Eric Thomas being there, and I find it hard to believe there’s an officer in Stanly County that can say they’re not a better officer for knowing Captain Eric Thomas. As lofty as the praise may sound, if there was a “Mount Rushmore” for Stanly County law enforcement, I believe Captain Eric Thomas (likely holding a cup of coffee and a cigarette) would be one of the first if not the first Stanly County officer carved into it. For the first ever Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation Outstanding Career Service award, I cannot think of a more deserving Stanly County officer than Captain Eric Thomas.”
God bless you Chief. You will never be forgotten.
(L) Locust Police Department Assistant Chief of Police Eric Thomas in 2010
(R) Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Captain Eric Thomas receiving the inaugural Outstanding Career Service Award in 2016
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT ISSUES STATEMENT ON COVID-19 EXECUTIVE ORDER 121 (STAY AT HOME ORDER)
***Credit For The Majority Of This Post Goes To The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office. We thought Sheriff Ingram’s post was so spot-on with the guidance provided and what to expect from their Sheriff’s Office once Governor Cooper’s Executive Order 121 goes into effect at 5 pm today (03/30) we are sharing most of it and substituting Locust in the post***
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a very stressful and in some cases, scary time for many of us in Locust, Stanly County, and surrounding areas. The stay-at-home order issued Friday by Governor Cooper likely and understandably enhanced those emotions.
The Locust Police Department wanted to take a moment to share with you our perspective of Governor Cooper’s Executive Order 121. We think it is important to address what the Locust Police Department will and will not be doing as a result of the order. We hope this will ease some worry for those trying to understand what the stay-at-home order means for you and your families. There is a great deal of information included in the order but we hope to cover the main points and clear up as much confusion as possible.
First, members of the Locust Police Department will not have roadblocks set-up to check those who are out and about. The Locust Police Department will also not be conducting traffic stops outside of violations of law to check driver’s travel intentions unless the circumstances overwhelmingly warrant it. We trust everyone moving about will be doing so for the purpose of work and/or taking care of essential needs.
What is considered essential as related to the stay-at-home order? A person may be out if they are coming or going to: Work, medical appointments, shopping for food, medications and home products for yourself or for someone unable to leave their home. This also includes travel to and from places of worship as well as travel to volunteer with organizations that provide charitable services. Additionally, you CAN go outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. You can go for a walk or a jog and you can take your dog for a walk. However, this does not mean you can go to public places that have been closed as a result of the order, and Locust officers will be assuring businesses that are required to be closed and any gathering sizes at locations closed by the order are in compliance. Even this enforcement by Locust officers will be as a result of received complaints or if we happen upon them, and not as a result of any strict “compliance patrols”. (Please check the order for a list of the types of businesses that would be required to be closed).
There are many businesses and services that are considered essential which will remain operational and available to you. While there are too many to list, some are: food services, healthcare services, banking services, construction services and gas stations. The order with a complete list is provided below.
The goal of the order is to limit the amount of contact between people in an effort to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 while still allowing you to have access to essential needs and giving providers of these needs authority to come and go. Exercising social distancing (maintaining at least six feet apart) and only gathering in groups of 10 people or less is key to minimizing the spread of COVID-19.
We offer encouragement to everyone during this time to stay positive and stay calm. Realize that the order is designed to influence you to stay home as much as you absolutely can but does not represent an “apocalyptic” event preventing you from purchasing supplies and food, getting fuel, getting medical care and medications, and conducting banking needs.
This is a time for people with children to reassure them they are safe and everything will be okay. While many of us aren’t cut out to be teachers, do the best you can (and when this is over, Thank a Teacher!) Use this as an opportunity to spend quality time with your families, get caught up on simple home projects, and enjoy this beautiful springtime weather.
TOGETHER, we will all get through this! We are the greatest nation in the history of the world, and WE will overcome this crisis stronger and even more resilient than before. This too shall pass. Until then, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with everyone as we navigate through this unsettling time.
Remember, the Locust Police Department is available to you 24/7. We remain on duty, protecting and serving you and your families. Never hesitate to call on us if you need us. If you have questions about the stay-at-home order, we will do our best to answer them. You may message us directly through Facebook messenger or by emailing Assistant Chief Shew at jbshew@locustnc.com. For questions by phone, you may contact us Monday-Friday (8:30 – 5:00) at 704-888-4744 or 24 hours a day at 704-986-3700 (for any needed law enforcement response, please utilize this number or 911 for an emergency).
We also encourage you to visit the Stanly County Health Department website for more information and the City of Locust website for any Locust specific info. Finally a link to Governor Cooper’s order is also below. We encourage everyone to read it so you understand what is and what is not acceptable following 5 pm today (03/30/20).
https://governor.nc.gov/documents/executive-order-no-121
https://locustnc.com/20…/…/coronavirus-planning-information/
https://www.facebook.com/brunswicksheriff/
LPD OFFICIALLY SWEARS IN NEW OFFICERS
The Locust Police Department welcomes Derek Yang as the newest member of our department. Officer Yang was officially sworn in on February 3rd by Locust city clerk Amy Meachum. Officer Yang is a 2019 graduate of Stanly Community College’s BLET program where he was the class recipient of the Damon Smith award for overall excellence and leadership in the class. We are proud to welcome him to the Locust family, and we believe he will be a tremendous asset to our law enforcement agency. Officer Yang will begin his field training under Sergeant Whitley. Welcome to our team and congratulations Derek!
The Locust Police Department also welcomed Josh Gardner to our department. Officer Gardner was officially sworn in on January 30th by Locust planning and zoning administrator Scott Efird. Officer Gardner is a Locust area native who has wanted to work for the Locust Police Department since he was a child. Officer Gardner is a 2019 graduate of Stanly Community College’s BLET program. We are proud to welcome him to the Locust family, and we believe he has a very bright future in law enforcement. Officer Gardner will begin his field training under Sergeant Stancil. Welcome to our team and congratulations Josh!
TRANSITION TO A NEW ERA IS COMPLETE AT THE LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT
In what seems fitting to take place on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the Locust Police Department celebrated the promotion of three officers and the start of the careers of two new officers on January 9th, 2020. Another Locust officer was previously promoted last September. These promotions and additions completed the transition to a new era at the Locust Police Department under Chief Steven Smith.
At the first city council meeting of 2020, three Locust officers were officially promoted to new positions with the department.
Jeff Shew was promoted to the rank of assistant chief of police for the department. Chief Shew has been with the Locust Police Department since 2009. After nearly six years in the department’s patrol division, he was promoted to detective sergeant in 2015 where he conducted or supervised all Locust investigations until the end of 2019. In his time as detective Chief Shew served as the lead investigator in just the second homicide Locust had ever experienced in July 2015. Chief Shew’s investigation in that incident along with assistance from other involved agencies resulted in apprehension and a guilty plea of what will likely amount to a life sentence for the offender. Chief Shew earned an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Stanly Community College where he was awarded the Edward J Snyder Jr Exceptional Scholar Award, and he graduated Summa Cum Laude from Western Carolina University with a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. Chief Shew also holds the general, intermediate, and advanced law enforcement certifications from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. Chief Shew is also a certified general instructor with the state of North Carolina and serves as an instructor for both annual mandated in-service training as well as an instructor with Stanly Community College’s BLET program. Chief Shew was awarded the “Got Your Six” award and “Everyday Hero” award by the Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation in 2014, and was a finalist for Stanly County Officer of the Year in 2013. Chief Shew graduated from the Leadership Stanly program in 2017. Chief Shew has also completed more than 1,100 training hours during his career and in 2019 graduated from the Law Enforcement Management Academy at South Piedmont Community College.
New Locust Assistant Chief Of Police Jeff Shew
With Chief Of Police Steven Smith
Kevin O’Connor was promoted to the rank of detective sergeant for the department. Detective O’Connor has been with the Locust Police Department since 2012 and his law enforcement career began in 2007. Prior to his career at Locust, Detective O’Connor had served as a sergeant with the Badin Police Department. Detective O’Connor served as a patrol officer with Locust until 2018 where he was promoted to patrol sergeant. In 2016 while still a patrol officer, Detective O’Connor served as lead investigator in a Locust burglary, rape, and kidnapping investigation that resulted in a guilty plea and substantial prison sentence for the offender. Detective O’Connor holds a bachelor’s degree from Five Towns College. Detective O’Connor also holds the general, intermediate, and advanced law enforcement certifications from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. Detective O’Connor is also a certified general instructor with the state of North Carolina and serves as an instructor for both annual mandated in-service training as well as an instructor with Stanly Community College’s BLET program. Detective O’Connor is the co-coordinator for Locust Police Department’s “Shop With A Cop” program. He was awarded the “Everyday Hero” award by the Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation in 2016 for his work with Shop With A Cop and has been a finalist for the same award multiple years. Detective O’Connor was also awarded the Chiefs Award of Excellence in 2015. Detective O’Connor has completed more than 900 training hours during his career.
New Detective Sergeant Kevin O’Connor
With Chief Of Police Steven Smith
Chad Whitley was promoted to the rank of patrol sergeant for the department. Sergeant Whitley is a Stanly County native and a six-year United States Army veteran who served with the 1/501st Airborne Infantry as well as the Army National Guard. Sergeant Whitley graduated from Stanly Community College’s BLET program in 2009 and was awarded the program’s Top Gun award. Sergeant Whitley has been with the Locust Police Department since 2009 in the department’s patrol division. He was awarded the rank of corporal in 2018. Sergeant Whitley is a highly respected member of the Locust Police Department with extensive experience in conducting traffic enforcement and incident investigations. Sergeant Whitley holds the general and intermediate law enforcement certifications from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Educations and Training Standards Commission. Sergeant Whitley will be attending General Instructor School in 2020 and upon completion will be sent to Specialized Firearms Instructor School. Sergeant Whitley was awarded a meritorious conduct medal in 2016 for his role in a medical call involving serious injury. Sergeant Whitley has completed nearly 700 training hours during his career.
New Patrol Sergeant Chad Whitley
With Locust Mayor Steve Huber
Previously in September 2019, Brandon Stancil was promoted to the rank of patrol sergeant for the department. Sergeant Stancil is a Stanly County native, has been with the Locust Police Department since 2007, and began his law enforcement career in 2005 with the Oakboro Police Department. Sergeant Stancil was previously awarded the rank of corporal in 2018. Sergeant Stancil is a highly regarded traffic officer who has specialized in traffic law enforcement his entire career. He is the department’s Governor’s Highway Safety Program coordinator. Sergeant Stancil holds the general and intermediate law enforcement certifications from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Educations and Training Standards Commission. Sergeant Stancil was awarded a meritorious conduct medal in 2016 for his role in a medical call involving serious injury. Sergeant Stancil has completed more than 900 training hours during his career.
At Stanly Community College’s graduation ceremony for their most recent Basic Law Enforcement Training program class, two new Locust officers started their law enforcement career journey.
Josh Gardner, a Stanly County native who professed a childhood dream of working for the Locust Police Department officially received his NC BLET certificate. Officer Gardner’s first day with the Locust Police Department was on December 30th and he will be sworn in to begin in the department’s FTO program upon receiving approval from the state.
Patrol Sergeant Brandon Stancil
With BLET Graduate And New Locust Officer Josh Gardner
Derek Yang also officially received his NC BLET certificate and was awarded the program’s Officer Damon Smith Memorial Award for overall excellence and leadership in the class. Officer Yang’s first day with the Locust Police Department will be on January 13th and he will be sworn in to begin in the department’s FTO program upon receiving approval from the state.
BLET Graduate, Damon Smith Award Winner, And New Locust Officer Derek Yang
We congratulate all of these officers on their outstanding achievements, and we are so excited about the future of the Locust Police Department!
PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 01/03/2020
Subject: Bomb Threat False Alarm – Sunrise Grill, 118 W Main St, Locust, NC 28097
Point Of Contact: Chief of Police Steven R. Smith (704-888-4744)
On Friday January 3rd, 2020 at approximately 8:50 am, an on-duty Locust patrol officer received a phone call from an employee of Sunrise Grill stating that the business had just received a phone call advising that there was a bomb inside the business. Locust officers responded immediately and evacuated the business while also notifying employees of businesses located on both sides of Sunrise Grill. An initial walk-through by Locust officers revealed no items or packages that appeared suspicious.
Per response protocol and out of an abundance of caution, the West Stanly Fire Department and Stanly County EMS staged on-scene in the event they were needed for fire, hazardous material, or injury response. Deputies from the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office responded to provide any needed assistance, and K-9 deputies with bomb-sniffing dogs from the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office responded upon request. A walk-through by K-9 revealed no presence of a suspected bomb or suspicious item. The business was deemed to be safe and free of any type of bomb at approximately 10:25 am.
Investigators with the Locust Police Department are investigating the source of the phone call that claimed a bomb was in the business. If the individual is located, ALL applicable charges will be evaluated and pursued.
The Locust Police Department expresses our sincere appreciation to the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, Stanly County Communications, Stanly County EMS, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, and West Stanly Fire Department for all assistance and response provided.
(SNAP) Suspect Flees Wreck Scene, Caught Hiding Behind House
The Locust Police Department assisted the NC State Highway Patrol in locating a subject who fled from a wrecked vehicle after attempting to elude a traffic stop. Tremendous teamwork by all agencies involved….
https://www.thesnaponline.com/…/suspect-flees-wreck-scene…/…
2019 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
12/30/2019
A new era at the Locust Police Department begins……
Locust Captain Steven Smith was officially sworn in this morning as Chief of Police for the Locust Police Department. We are all excited to begin this next chapter under Chief Smith. Congratulations Chief!!
12/27/2019
700……..10-42
From the Locust Police Department, thank you for everything sir. You’ve earned it.
ONE CHAPTER REACHES ITS FINAL PAGES AND A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS
At the December Locust City Council meeting, a chapter in the history of the Locust Police Department reached its final pages and a new chapter to be written also began. Chief of Police Frank Hartsell who will officially retire on December 29th, 2019 was honored by council and Locust Captain Steven “Smitty” Smith was unanimously voted by council to be Chief Hartsell’s successor.
Chief Frank Hartsell is a western Stanly County native who began his career with the Locust Police Department in February 1991. He has served with Locust as a patrol officer, sergeant, detective, assistant chief, and has served as the department’s chief of police since 2010. Chief Hartsell has earned both the intermediate and advanced law enforcement certification from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission during his career. He is a certified general instructor and specialized firearms instructor with the state of North Carolina and an active instructor with Stanly Community College’s BLET program. Chief Hartsell has also served on the advisory board for Stanly Community College’s BLET and law enforcement continuing education programs and he serves as IT specialist for the municipalities and law enforcement agencies in western Stanly County. Chief Hartsell is known county-wide for his proficiency and expertise in both radio and computer system technology. Chief Hartsell was the 2019 recipient of the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation Career Service Award.
Chief Hartsell began his career with Locust in a 3-4 man department and serving an approximate city population of 2,400. Over the course of his career he has seen the population of Locust grow to an estimated 5,000 residents as of 2019 in a still rapidly growing city located 18 miles from Charlotte. He has overseen the Locust Police Department grow to a 13 member department that will add an additional 2 officers shortly after his retirement. Chief Hartsell has either contributed to or decided the hiring of every current Locust officer. Of those 12 officers, 7 have more than 10 years of experience in law enforcement, 3 hold the intermediate law enforcement certification, and 4 hold both the intermediate and advanced law enforcement certification. With the exception of 1 current officer, all of those officers earned those certifications while Chief Hartsell was assistant chief or chief of police. Additionally, 2 Locust officers have achieved their associate’s degree and 1 officer has earned both an associate’s and bachelor’s degree under Chief Hartsell. In total, 3 Locust officers hold an associate’s degree, 4 hold a bachelor’s degree, and 1 has their Master’s degree with another officer working towards the same achievement. Chief Hartsell’s focus on extensive training has resulted in one of the most highly trained officer rosters in Stanly County.
Under Chief Hartsell, the Locust Police Department has been highly successful in preventing high crime rates and apprehending violators in an increasingly populated city. During Chief Hartsell’s tenure as chief, the City of Locust has had a daily occurrence average of just 0.49 total larcenies (business, personal, vehicle, residential), and a 0.14 daily average occurrence of personal larcenies (personal, vehicle, residential). In all assault activity the city has experienced a daily average occurrence of just .07. In 2018 under Chief Hartsell the Locust Police Department had a clearance rate of 69.9% in criminal incidents and 78.2% for property crime and fraud incidents. Through August of 2019 LPD had a 67.5% clearance rate for criminal incidents and 66.5% for property crime and fraud.
During his tenure as chief, Chief Hartsell has always placed a heavy and valued emphasis on community policing. Chief Hartsell believes in a strong personal relationship with residents and businesses in Locust, to be highly approachable and kind while still performing our required job duties. He is a firm believer in quality and thoughtful officer discretion and always holding ourselves to the highest ethical standard. Chief Hartsell has kept a welcoming open door policy throughout his career and when Locust folks come to the Locust Police Department, they ask for “Frank” not “Chief Hartsell”.
The Locust Police Department and all of its officers thank Chief Hartsell for his service, all he has done to contribute to our careers, and his significant contributions to the safety and security of residents, visitors, and businesses in the city of Locust. He has earned a well-deserved retirement. Congratulations Chief!
Captain Steven “Smitty” Smith is a Locust native who began his law enforcement career in 1997 with the Locust Police Department. He also has served stints with the Monroe Police Department and Kannapolis Police Department before returning to Locust in 2007. With the Locust Police Department, Captain Smith has served as a patrol officer, patrol sergeant, and has served as second in command as captain since 2016. Captain Smith holds an associate degree in criminal justice, both the intermediate and advanced law enforcement certification with the state, and recently graduated South Piedmont Community College’s Law Enforcement Management Academy (LEMA). Like Chief Hartsell, Captain Smith is well known by so many in Locust and western Stanly County, and believes in strong community relationships that coincide with fair but firm law enforcement operations. All of the officers of the Locust Police Department endorsed Captain Smith for the position and we are so happy for his achievement. Congratulations Captain (soon to be Chief) Smith on this outstanding achievement and we are excited to work under you as our leader!
Chief Hartsell’s last working day will be Friday December 27th, and a retirement drop-in celebration is scheduled for Tuesday December 17th from 12 pm – 3 pm in the Locust City Council chambers. Captain Smith will be sworn in as chief of police on Monday December 30th at 9 am also in the Locust City Council chambers.
2015 LOCUST HOMICIDE RESULTS IN 2ND DEGREE MURDER PLEA
On July 24th, 2015 the Locust Police Department responded to annexed property of Locust located at 8300 NC Hwy 200 in Cabarrus County and the report of a human body that had been set on fire. Upon arrival, Locust officers found a badly burned deceased female later identified as Ms. Donna Marie Helms-Perez who had suffered blunt force trauma to the head as well as multiple stab wounds. Assistance with processing of the crime scene and initial investigation was provided by the NC State Bureau of Investigation and the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office.
Mr. Randy Lee “Bubba” Edwards quickly emerged as a person of interest after a suicide attempt that same evening in Concord with investigation assistance provided by the Concord Police Department. Additional investigation and investigative findings over the next few days resulted in warrants obtained for Mr. Edwards on the charge of murder of Ms. Helms-Perez. Mr. Edwards was placed under arrest on August 1st, 2015 after release from a medical facility.
Over the following six-plus months investigators with the Locust Police Department, NC State Bureau of Investigation, Concord Police Department, and Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office completed extensive background and corroborative investigation involving follow-ups on investigative findings, interviews, and the submission of evidence to the NC Crime Lab. Mr. Edwards’ trial on the charge of murder was scheduled to begin at the end of May 2019.
On Thursday May 9th, 2019 Mr. Edwards who is now 64 years old, pled guilty to the second-degree murder of Ms. Helms-Perez. He was sentenced to a prison term of a minimum of 290 months to a maximum of 360 months (approximately 24 – 30 years).
The Locust Police Department hopes that this sentence provides some closure and justice being served for the family and friends of Ms. Helms-Perez.
The Locust Police Department would also like to extend our utmost sincere appreciation to the NC State Bureau of Investigation, Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, Concord Police Department, and the Cabarrus County District Attorney’s Office for all of their assistance and work on this investigation and case.
https://www.independenttribune.com/news/bubba-edwards-pleads-guilty-to-nd-degree-murder/article_a111b3f2-7285-11e9-9684-4f4fca6639a4.html
https://www.independenttribune.com/news/bubba-edwards-likely-to-spend-life-in-prison-for-horrific/article_e10864e2-7343-11e9-a641-afc09e947762.html
LOCUST OFFICERS WIN AWARDS FOR SERVICE
Officer Dwayne Dietz (L) and Chief Frank Hartsell (R) with their awards from the Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation
The Locust Police Department is so proud of Chief of Police Frank Hartsell and Officer Dwayne Dietz for the recognition they received at the 2019 Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation Awards Dinner.
Officer Dwayne Dietz was awarded the officer nominated “Got Your Six” award. He is a 7-year veteran of the Locust Police Department. In his nomination, the nominating officer noted Officer Dietz’s work ethic as an excellent example to younger officers, and his unwavering willingness to serve his community and assist other officers. It was also noted that Officer Dietz “is “the guy” that you want to see roll up on those tough traffic stops or bad calls.”
Chief of Police Frank Hartsell has served in law enforcement in Western Stanly County and specifically the Locust Police Department for more than 28 years. He has served as the chief of police for Locust since 2010. He is scheduled to retire in December 2019 where he will be just the second Locust officer to retire from the police department in its history. Chief Hartsell is known county-wide for his proficiency and skill as a firearms instructor, as well as in radio and computer technologies. He is an instructor for both Stanly Community College and for area agencies in mandated in-service training, and he also serves on multiple advisory committees in Stanly County. Chief Hartsell has spent his entire life in Western Stanly County and he brings those roots to how he directs the Locust Police Department. He expects all of his officers to perform their duties efficiently and more importantly ethically, and he also expects his officers to get to know the community they serve personally. This mindset is seen almost daily as area residents come to the police department to ask a question or present a concern. It’s never that they need to speak with “the chief of police”, and instead it’s always “I need to speak to Frank” knowing his door is always open to listen and assist. His philosophies on law enforcement and his leadership style have resulted in a heavily community-involved law enforcement agency that is one of the most respected in Stanly County.
The Locust Police Department would also like to congratulate Albemarle Officer Kim Cook for being awarded the Everyday Hero award and Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Tristan Furr for being awarded Stanly County Officer of the Year.
2018 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT STILL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
**NOTE** $33,817 starting salary is for basic entry level officers such as those currently enrolled in BLET or BLET graduates that also have no prior experience or higher learning completion. Starting salary may be higher for lateral transfer officers and/or officers with extensive training or education.
WE ARE STILL HIRING and accepting applications at one of the fastest growing cities in North Carolina! Apply NOW to join an agency with tremendous growth potential as the population of Locust is expected to potentially double within the next 5 years! For more information, contact Detective Shew at jbshew@locustnc.com or through direct message.
***Locust Police Department Crime Advisory Alert***
November 14th, 2018
Stanly County has again begun experiencing incidents of unlocked vehicle break-ins in the last couple of months. These incidents have also included Locust albeit to a less extent than in other areas of the county. Subdivisions where houses are located close together are the usual target of these types of break-ins. In the Locust incidents thus far, the loss of valuable items have not been substantial, however this does not minimize the overall threat and blatant violation in these types of offenses. The Locust Police Department would like to advise you of the best way to prevent these types of incidents as well as eliminate any loss of valuables, or the feeling of your personal property being violated.
There are two keys to these break-ins occurring and they are both remedied easily. The first being that the vehicles victimized have all been left UNLOCKED and second, valuables such as electronics have been left in these unlocked vehicles.
Below I have included an advisory I issued back in February of 2012. You will notice the similarities. As I always say, crimes of opportunity such as these are largely eliminated if you eliminate the opportunity. Simply put, keep the valuables out of your vehicles overnight at your homes, and lock your doors.
Everyone stay safe and take care.
VEHICLE BREAK-INS CRIME PREVENTION REMINDER FROM THE LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT
Unlocked vehicle break-ins are still a major on-going problem in Stanly County. There is no concrete evidence but this is one reason why a home security camera benefits your home. This will allow you to catch them on camera for the courts to see during trial. These break-ins are all being perpetrated by the same individual(s) however, the method has stayed consistent. These thieves are checking for unlocked doors on vehicles and upon finding one, they search through the cars looking for easily removed electronics such as GPS devices, firearms, and money including small amounts of loose change. The perpetrators are even stealing the vehicle if they find a key inside the vehicle anywhere. These individuals are also not just checking a couple of vehicles, they are canvassing entire areas looking for unlocked vehicles to steal from.
The Locust Police Department is reminding all citizens of the following preventative measures:
– Keep all items of value OUT of your vehicle(s), especially in the late night and early morning hours.
– KEEP YOUR VEHICLE(S) LOCKED AND YOUR WINDOWS UP WHEN YOU WILL BE AWAY FROM YOUR VEHICLE(S), EVEN IF YOU WILL ONLY BE AWAY FOR A FEW MINUTES. It is still a good idea to keep your vehicle(s) secure even if you have removed all valuables.
– Record serial numbers for any items of value that have a serial number and keep this information in a safe place you will remember. Stolen items can be identified through serial numbers if they are attempted to be sold or pawned by thieves.
– NEVER EVER keep a key for the vehicle anywhere near the vehicle. Keep any extra keys in secure locations away from the vehicle. Do not assume you have the “perfect” spot for your back-up key.
– If you notice through press sources that one or more individuals has been arrested for vehicle break-ins in Stanly County, do not assume that the problem has been solved. Breaking in unlocked vehicles has become a major problem nationwide and obviously the same individuals are not responsible for break-ins everywhere.
– If your vehicle is equipped with a car alarm and you hear it go off in the late night or early morning hours, call 911 as soon as possible.
– If you observe ANY suspicious activity around your residence or neighborhood (suspicious vehicles, persons, or activity), especially in the late night and early morning hours, you may call 911 for emergencies and (704)986-3700 for non-emergencies in Stanly County, (704)920-3000 for non-emergencies in Cabarrus County sections of Locust. It is ALWAYS better to be safe than sorry.
The Locust Police Department patrols all neighborhoods and areas in Locust however, be aware that if these individuals are on foot while in neighborhoods, it is easy to hide in the shadows if they notice a vehicle driving down the road. The Locust Police Department is asking all citizens to help us prevent break-ins and thefts in our city. Simple tasks such as locking a door or taking an item inside with you at night can make all the difference in preventing the loss of valuable items, and will help to discourage thieves from committing larcenies in Locust. For more crime prevention and safety tips please contact the Locust Police Department or you may request materials by contacting Officer Shew by email at jbslpd@gmail.com.
NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES MARCH AND APRIL 2018
LOCUST OFFICER HONORED
The Locust Police Department is proud to announce that Officer Hannah Claiborne has been named as a finalist nominee for 2017/2018 Stanly County Officer of the Year by the Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation. This year’s silent auction and awards banquet will be Thursday May 10th at 6 pm at Il Bella Gardens. Please consider showing your support for the Jeff Shelton foundation, Stanly County law enforcement, and Officer Claiborne by attending this year’s event. Great job Hannah!!!
https://www.facebook.com/OfficerJeffSheltonFoundation/
https://2018thinbluelinedinner.app.rsvpify.com/
https://www.wsoctv.com/…/locust-police-officer-c…/707729024…
LOCUST POLICE PLAY MAJOR ROLE IN ARREST OF TWO-STATE SERIAL ARMED ROBBERY SUSPECT
As reported on both WSOC television and in the Stanly News & Press among other publications, the Locust Police Department and specifically Patrol Officer Hannah Claiborne played a major role in the arrest of Ron Houser of Stallings, NC. Houser is suspected of multiple armed robberies of Dollar Generals in both North and South Carolina since 2016 including three recent robberies of Dollar General stores in Stanly County.
After learning of the three robberies in Stanly County as well as discovering that the same suspect was believed to be responsible for numerous other robberies in both Carolinas, Locust investigators began compiling information about the other robberies to send alert advisories to Locust officers to combat the possibility of a robbery at the Locust Dollar General location. As these crimes were on the database, it was easier for the team to gather this information. Being able to check on individuals’ criminal history is not just beneficial for the police force, but businesses too. For example, if your company is based in the New South Wales of Australia, you could look into something like nsw police check to provide police certificates to individuals looking for employment, education or other legal needs. They can also be used to look into the criminal history of employees. On February 21st, Officer Claiborne was patrolling West Main Street and observed a vehicle fitting the description of one believed to be associated with other robberies parked at Dollar General in Locust. Officer Claiborne was able to acquire the license plate information of the vehicle and discovered it was registered to Houser. Security camera video acquired from the business showed that Houser, and specifically the clothing he wore, had a strong resemblance to the serial armed robbery suspect. Houser’s criminal history also showed a previous 19 year stint in prison for armed robbery offenses. Further review of the surveillance video at Dollar General showed Houser to commit a larceny of energy shots while in the business. In addition to acquiring an arrest warrant for Houser on the misdemeanor larceny charge, information obtained by Officer Claiborne was distributed to other agencies investigating similar robberies. Those agencies were able to confirm through investigation that Houser was in fact the individual who committed the robberies in their jurisdictions including one where he also beat a female store clerk. Houser was located and arrested less than 24 hours later.
After learning that Houser’s “MO” was to “case” business locations several days before committing a robbery, it is strongly believed that Officer Claiborne’s observance and vigilance prevented an armed robbery from occurring in Locust, and also played a major role in putting Houser behind bars for robberies believed to have occurred in at least 20 different jurisdictions. Outstanding police work Hannah!
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY 2018 FELONY AND DWI ARRESTS
01/08/18 – Kristina Jenel Hicks of Rockwell, NC – Possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia.
01/08/18 – Michael Earl Perry of Gold Hill, NC – Possession of methamphetamine, felony possession of Schedule II.
01/12/18 – Ashley O’Mia Herndon of Albemarle, NC – Attempt to obtain property by false pretense.
01/20/18 – Rebecca Lynn Prince of Midland, NC – Obtain property by false pretense, misdemeanor larceny.
01/20/18 – Dallas David McSheehan of Midland, NC – Obtain property by false pretense.
01/20/18 – Carlos Enrique Garcia of Locust, NC – Felony possession of Schedule I, felony possession of Schedule II, simple possession of Schedule VI, unauthorized use of motor vehicle.
01/25/18 – Rayfield Taylor of Charlotte, NC – Felony larceny, felony larceny by removal of anti-theft device.
01/29/18 – Shae Eileen Sansbury of Landis, NC – Obtain property by false pretense.
01/30/18 – Donny Ray Baker of Mint Hill, NC – Felony larceny by removal of anti-theft device, misdemeanor larceny.
02/13/18 – Stanley Maurice Walker of Midland, NC – Driving while impaired.
02/16/18 – Terry Clyde Hatley of Waxhaw, NC – Driving while impaired.
02/28/18 – Cameron Alexzander Horne of Stanfield, NC – Felony larceny by removal of anti-theft device.
CONVICTION NEWS
On August 31st, 2016 Locust officers investigated the report of a burglary, sexual assault, and kidnapping by a female victim residing at a North Central Avenue residence. The alleged offender was the victim’s ex-boyfriend who had previously resided with the victim. After investigation, on September 15th, 2016 Jack LaBrittan Smith of Mount Holly, Stanfield, and Locust was apprehended in Gaston County on warrants obtained by the Locust Police Department. Smith was charged with 1st degree rape, 2nd degree burglary, 1st degree kidnapping, felonious restraint, assault with a deadly weapon, assault on a female, and communicating threats. Smith had been incarcerated in Gaston County and the Stanly County Jail since the date of arrest.
On February 1st, 2018, Smith pled guilty to second degree rape, second degree burglary, and first degree kidnapping. As a result of the plea, Smith received a prison sentence of a minimum of 7 years and 2 months to a maximum of 9 years and 8 months. Smith will also be required to be a registered sex offender for life.
LOCUST OFFICER RECEIVES INTERMEDIATE CERTIFICATION
At the February Locust City Council meeting, Locust Patrol Officer Trent Middlebrook was awarded his intermediate law enforcement certification by Locust Chief of Police Frank Hartsell. The intermediate law enforcement certification is awarded by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and recognizes extensive training completed by the officer as well as years of service. In Officer Middlebrook’s case, his previous achievement of completing his associate’s degree at Stanly Community College along with other training allowed him to achieve this certification after just four years of service.
Officer Middlebrook has been with the Locust Police Department since January of 2014. He is a two time recipient of Stanly County Officer of the Year by the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation in 2015 and 2016 and he was recognized by the Stanly County Rotary Club as Stanly County Officer of the Year in 2015.
Locust Officer Trent Middlebrook
With 2015 Officer Of The Year Award
2017 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
LOCUST OFFICER FINISHES BACHELOR’S DEGREE
On December 16th, Locust Detective Jeff Shew graduated from Western Carolina University’s distance learning program with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Detective Shew finished his degree with a 3.971 grade point average earning summa cum laude honors. During his time at Western, Detective Shew was also awarded membership to the Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society for Adult Learners.
Previously, Detective Shew was a 2014 graduate of Stanly Community College’s Criminal Justice program where he also received an Outstanding Criminal Justice graduate recognition as well as being awarded the Edward J. Snyder Jr. Exceptional Scholars Award.
Detective Shew has been with the Locust Police Department since 2009 and has served as the agency’s full-time investigator after six years as a patrol officer. Detective Shew currently holds an intermediate law enforcement certification awarded to North Carolina officers by the Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission for a specified level of experience, education, and training. Detective Shew earning his bachelor’s degree now qualifies him to be a recipient of the Advanced Law Enforcement Certification, the highest certification level North Carolina officers can receive.
Detective Shew will begin pursuing his Master’s of Criminal Justice degree in the Fall of 2018 through East Carolina University’s distance learning program.
Detective Jeff Shew During His Tenure As A Patrol Officer
LOCUST TRAINING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Locust Officer Kevin O’Connor in October completed the two-week General Instructor Certification program and passed the NC State General Instructor exam. Officer O’Connor as a general instructor is able to teach most NC authorized law enforcement instruction topics, and he has already begun instruction of the Domestic Violence response topic at Stanly Community College’s Basic Law Enforcement Training program. Officer O’Connor is the fourth certified instructor employed at the Locust Police Department. Great job Kevin!
Locust Officer Kevin O’Connor
AS SEEN ON THE LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT FACEBOOK PAGE
*Note – Although we do not utilize it extensively for public relations activities, the Locust Police Department does have an official Facebook page that we invite you to follow (https://www.facebook.com/Locust-Police-Department-971105932951713/) . Here are some of the most recent posts:
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT CONDUCT “MUSTACHEMBER” PROJECT TO HONOR AND SUPPORT WARRIOR JACE
In honor of the bravest little warrior we know, members of the Locust Police Department grew and kept the classic cop “stache” from November 15th – December 15th in an event we dubbed “Mustachember 2017″……Some of Locust’s finest were a little more successful than others (some are still waiting for the facial hair part of puberty to kick in) but nevertheless, we all came together to show our admiration and support for “Warrior” Jace Thompson. Jace will also be receiving a department card and donation in the coming days. Jace…..you are our hero, our prayers are with you, and we will ALWAYS have your six.
Jace is the four-year-old son of NC State Highway Patrol Sergeant Eric Thompson and Cornelius PD Captain Jennifer Thompson. He was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor in October and has been touching and inspiring others every day since then. To learn more about Warrior Jace and how you can help show your support for this special little boy, please visit the Warrior Jace Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/warriorjace/
SHOP WITH A COP EVENT A SUCCESS FOR THE THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR
For the third straight year, Locust Officers Brittany Tucker and Kevin O’Connor along with the assistance of the Stanfield and Oakboro Police Department coordinated the Shop With A Cop event for Western Stanly County children in need. See the link to the Shop With A Cop Facebook page for more information about this year’s event as well as a link to a wonderful write-up about the event from the Stanly News & Press. Great job guys and ladies!!!
https://www.facebook.com/shopwithacoplocust/
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT CONTRIBUTES TO OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
The City of Locust and Locust Police Department were once again this year proud to participate in and support Operation Christmas Child. This year city staff and Locust officers packed 25 shoe-boxes full of gifts for underprivileged children in other countries. #ipackedashoebox
From L-R: Officer Dustin Wells, Officer Kevin O’Connor, Detective Jeff Shew, City Administrator Cesar Correa, And City Employee Mandy Thomas with Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT SUPPORTS ONLINE EXCHANGE ZONE AT LOCUST GOVERNMENT CENTER
The Locust Police Department is proud to support the Online Exchange Zone now located in front of the Locust Government Center. This zone allows for safer online purchasing/trade transactions at a location that always has police vehicles present and very often has Locust officers on-scene as well. This online exchange zone idea was completely coordinated by Ms. Katherine Bennett, a West Stanly High School student who has made it her project to establish these zones in every municipality in Stanly County. Katherine is an outstanding example of a young person taking the initiative to present ideas to make Stanly County safer and an even better place to live. To Katherine we say thank you for all of the hard work you did on this project. JOB WELL DONE!
(Reminder – Although the Online Exchange Zone sign is located on a Handicap Parking sign post, please do not utilize the Handicap Parking spot unless you are authorized to do so. Thanks)
JUVENILE REPORTED IN FREEZING TEMPS AND EARLY MORNING HOURS
We routinely tell you that the Locust Police Department Facebook page is for investigations involving Facebook profiles only however given the circumstances we believe it’s appropriate to share this post:
The Locust Police Department received a dispatched call from Stanly Communications in reference to a juvenile female walking in the parking lot area of the Locust McDonalds and Wal-Mart location at 3:38:10 am. First Locust officer arrived on-scene to attempt to locate the juvenile at 3:38:48 am (38 second response time).
At that time an extensive and detailed search of the area began involving multiple agencies including the Locust Police Department, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, Stanfield Police Department, and West Stanly Fire Department who provided thermal imaging technology. Additionally, reverse 911 protocol was utilized that initially included a 5 mile radius and was then expanded to 15 miles. Stanly County email notification was also utilized. Multiple media outlets have also reported on this investigation.
After nearly 3 1/2 hours the search was ended after no juvenile was located, no evidence suggesting any type of suspicious activity or foul play was found, and no calls were received reporting a missing or runaway juvenile.
As of 11:15 am this morning (10/30), no calls have been received by Stanly Communications or the Locust Police Department reporting a missing or runaway juvenile.
This investigation is still considered open however at this time there is nothing more that can be pursued based on the known facts and no received reports of missing or runaway juveniles.
The Locust Police Department thanks all assisting agencies, media sources that have reported the situation, and all concerned citizens that have contacted us.
2017 Crime Briefs To Date
(Some of the notable crime events and arrests by the Locust Police Department from September to December 2017)
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- On September 24th, Locust officers responded to a larceny in progress at the Locust Wal-Mart where the suspect Mr. Tyrone Gleaton of Polkton was attempting to leave the area. When officers attempted to stop Gleaton he fled at a high rate of speed entering the eastbound lane of NC 24/27 striking a vehicle. Gleaton then attempted again to flee by traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of NC 24-27. Just prior to Pine Bluff Road Gleaton struck two other vehicles which disabled his vehicle. He was arrested without further incident. Gleaton was charged in Stanly County with a felony larceny offense and he was charged in Cabarrus County with multiple charges related to fleeing to elude arrest. He was also advised to take a defensive driving course at places like www.myimprov.com/defensive-driving/texas/ to hopefully make him a more wary, and much more safer driver in future.
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- On September 27th, a vehicle operated by Mr. Duran Davis of Albemarle was stopped for failing to maintain lane control. Davis was found to have a suspended driver’s license and officers also smelled marijuana in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle uncovered a controlled substance medication, marijuana, and more than eight grams of cocaine. Davis was arrested on multiple drug charges.
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- On October 1st, Ms. Amanda Hamed of Concord was arrested after Locust officers responded to a fraud investigation at Wal-Mart. During investigation, Hamed was found to have methamphetamine concealed in her sock.
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- On October 16th, Mr. Nathaniel Payne of Locust was found to have used a family member’s debit card without authorization at the Locust Wal-Mart and Woodforest Bank located inside of Wal-Mart. Payne used the debit card to withdraw $200 and then also utilized the card to purchase more than $80 worth of merchandise from the business. Felony warrants were obtained for Payne and he was arrested on October 29th. Another investigation involving Payne was initiated in December after suspicious activity was reported by First Bank of Locust. After the completion of that investigation, multiple felony warrants were obtained for Payne for charges related to identity theft and financial fraud.
- On October 27th, Mr. Damon Broussard of Columbia, South Carolina attempted to cash a check for $3800 at the Locust Wells Fargo location. That check was determined to be fraudulent and Mr. Broussard was arrested by Locust officers.
- On November 10th, Locust officers responded to a report of suspicious activity at Wal-Mart. The involved vehicle driven by Ms. Hayley Broadway of Oakboro was stopped on a Locust highway after officers confirmed Broadway had a suspended driver’s license. Investigation during the stop implicated Broadway and vehicle passengers Ms. Brandy Bracey, and Mr. Brandon Sells of a larceny at the business of more than $170 worth of merchandise. A search of the vehicle uncovered methamphetamine and a rifle that was later confirmed to be stolen from a Stanly County residence. Broadway was arrested for the possession of meth and later charged by the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office on charges related to the theft of the firearm. Bracey and Sells were cited for misdemeanor larceny.
LOCUST OFFICER EXCELS IN DWI DETECTION
Locust Police Department Officer Trent Middlebrook continues to excel in traffic and DWI enforcement for the Locust Police Department this year. Currently through September, Officer Middlebrook has made 33 DWI arrests in 2017, an astounding number for a population the size of Locust. Although he has only been a sworn officer for three years, Officer Middlebrook discovered very early a knack for the identification of impaired drivers. If you have been arrested for a DWI then it might be a good idea to get yourself, even if you are innocent. You can check out a website like https://cannonlawtexas.com/ to give you a better idea of what to do next. Officer Middlebrook has contributed to his natural instincts by completing more than 200 hours of training related to DWI enforcement. Officer Middlebrook is certified as a standardized field sobriety testing (SFST) instructor, and is close to completing certification as one of the regions few certified drug recognition experts (DRE). Officer Middlebrook has also been qualified in Stanly County court as an expert witness in the testifying of the HGN test included in the SFST battery of testing.
Officer Middlebrook was the 2016 and 2017 recipient of the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation Stanly County Officer of the Year award and he was the 2016 recipient of the Albemarle Rotary Club Stanly County Officer of the Year. It is well known that Officer Middlebrook could take his talents to any larger agency and he has standing offers with multiple agencies however he has expressed his desire to remain in Locust as long as he can. We hope he is able to make an entire career at the Locust Police Department. Job well done Trent!!
WELCOME BACK TO LOCUST OFFICER
Back on January 23rd, Locust Officer Dwayne Dietz responded to a felony fraud crime in progress at Wal-Mart. After confronting the suspect’s vehicle driven by Mr. Milo Tyler, Tyler fled from the area at a high rate of speed resulting in Officer Dietz and Cabarrus County deputies pursuing. In the area of Allen Fire Department on Hwy 601 in Concord, Tyler lost control of his vehicle and crashed then attempted to flee on foot. Officer Dietz pursued Tyler on foot but his pursuit ended after breaking his lower leg in three places. Tyler was apprehended a short time later by assisting officers, while Officer Dietz was transported to the hospital for emergency surgery.
Since that incident, Mr. Tyler pled guilty to multiple charges related to that day and is currently incarcerated in the North Carolina prison system. Officer Dietz endured multiple surgeries and intensive rehab on his lower leg, an injury that doctors said could have been career ending. On September 1st, more than 6 months after his injury, Officer Dwayne Dietz returned to duty as a patrol officer for the Locust Police Department. Please join us in welcoming back Officer Dietz if you see him out in the community. He is a good man, an outstanding officer, and an integral part of the Locust Police Department family.
Officer Dietz has been with Locust since 2012. He was a 2016 nominee for the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation “Got Your Six” award and a 2017 nominee for Stanly County Officer of the Year. Welcome back Dwayne!!
2017 Crime Briefs To Date
(Some of the notable crime events and arrests by the Locust Police Department from June to August 2017)
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- On June 22nd, Locust Police responded to Wal-Mart and the report of a female using counterfeit $100 bills to purchase merchandise. This was reported to be the third incident involving the same suspect. Locust officers were able to apprehend Ms. Christy Russell Gainey of Albemarle. After investigation and interview, Ms. Gainey was charged with multiple felony counts involving fraud and counterfeiting for all three incidents in Locust, and additional incidents occurring in Albemarle. On July 31st, Gainey pled guilty to the charges.
- On July 19th, a victim from Stanfield reported her bank debit card being used to withdraw money multiple times from Locust ATMs without her authorization. Total reported loss was $1320. After investigation, Ms. Shelly Dawn Page of Stanfield was identified as the offender and a warrant was issued for her arrest on multiple felony charges involving fraud and identity theft. Page was arrested on July 29th.
- On July 29th, a vehicle driven by Ms. Shannon Marie Laney of Stanfield was stopped on West Main Street due to the vehicle displaying a fictitious registration plate. During investigation, a consent search of the vehicle uncovered multiple pipes containing a substance that field tested positive for methamphetamine and multiple bags containing an identical substance. Laney was arrested and charged with felony possession of methamphetamine and the possession of drug paraphernalia.
- On August 5th, a vehicle driven by Mr. Christopher James Dennis of Stanfield was stopped after a Locust officer observed a failure to maintain lane control violation on West Main Street. During the stop, a plain view observation of drug paraphernalia in the vehicle was made and a search of the vehicle followed. During the search, multiple items of drug paraphernalia were found including a digital scale and multiple small plastic baggies. Also found was a plastic bag containing 2.2 grams of a substance believed to be methamphetamine. Dennis was arrested and charged with felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule I controlled substance as well as the possession of drug paraphernalia.
- On August 8th, a vehicle operated by Mr. John Wayne Simmons Jr. of Mt. Pleasant and occupied by Ms. Sherry Ann Reed of Mt. Pleasant was stopped for displaying a fictitious plate on West Main Street. Simmons attempted to provide false information to Locust officers during investigation. Reed, who was established to be the owner of the vehicle consented to a search of the vehicle and also admitted to having a firearm in her purse. Drug paraphernalia was found in the vehicle and Reed was charged with the possession as well as a concealed weapons violation. After investigation it was determined that the firearm Reed possessed had the serial number removed from the gun. A warrant was issued for Reed for felony possession of a gun with an altered or destroyed serial number.
- On August 9th, a motorcycle operated by Mr. Steven Austin Cline of Midland was approximated to be traveling in excess of 60 mph on West Main Street near Commercial Boulevard, a 45 mph zone area. When Locust officers attempted to stop Mr. Cline he began weaving heavily through traffic and failed to yield to oncoming traffic as it turned onto Pine Bluff Road. Cline then began traveling at speeds between 80 and 100 mph attempting to elude Locust officers. Cline was apprehended when he lost control of the motorcycle at a driveway on Hopewell Church Road. Cline did not appear to be injured and he was apprehended for multiple charges including felony flee to elude an officer. Cline’s motorcycle was seized and impounded.
SCAM ATTEMPTS REMINDERS
(Photo Credit: SurveyMonkey.com)
On an extremely regular basis, we are approached by Locust citizens who have received questionable mail or email offers, or advisories of money owed. On every single one of these occasions it has been a scam attempt. Whether it’s a sweepstakes, Ebay, Craig’s List, IRS, Federal Law Enforcement, utility or insurance company, or a multitude of others not named, there’s a million ways “to skin a cat” when it comes to attempting a scam. These types of crimes are easy to commit as all it takes is a computer, a phone, or publisher software. They can also be attempted from the comfort of another state or country using fraudulent identifications and fraudulent or temporary phone numbers. No law enforcement agency has the resources to attempt to locate these types of criminals so the best recourse for us is always education.
The two most simple rules to follow when you receive a questionable offer or demand by phone, email, or mail is that 1) If it sounds too good to be true, it most definitely is and 2) If a company or an individual is claiming you owe money, your account has been compromised, or whatever else they may try to convince you of, give the source that is contacting you NO information. You should then find contact information for that company or source independent of the method that was used to contact you (example – If a company sends you an email claiming you owe money, do not utilize the contact info in the email. Use a phone book or internet search engine (Google, Yahoo, etc.) to find contact information for that company and use that information to contact), then contact the official company to find out if what you received was legitimate or not. Almost every time, you will find that it was a scam, and even if it is not you should always treat it as it is until you discover otherwise.
Feel free to email Detective Shew at jbslpd@gmail.com if you have any questions about different scam attempts, and you can also consult some of our resources on the Locust PD website.
https://locustnc.com/police-department-resources/
LOCUST OFFICERS HONORED AT ANNUAL EVENT
On May 11th, the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation held its annual awards dinner and silent auction to honor Stanly County officers and raise money for the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation. It has become an annual tradition in Stanly County to both honor those currently serving as well as honoring those who served that gave the ultimate sacrifice. As has also become an annual tradition, multiple Locust officers were nominated for awards with two of Locust’s finest coming away award winners.
On the nominee side for the Locust Police Department, Officers Trent Middlebrook and Dwayne Dietz were nominated as Stanly County Officer of the Year. Officer Dustin Wells was a finalist for the officer nominated “Got Your Six” award, and Officer Middlebrook, Officer Kevin O’Connor, Officer Brittany Tucker, and Detective Jeff Shew were finalists for the community nominated “Everyday Hero” award.
Coming away as award winners for Locust, Officer Dustin Wells was awarded the “Got Your Six” award after being nominated by Officer Hannah Claiborne for his swift response and timely action in assisting her with two suspects in a vehicle discovered to be stolen out of Charlotte. Due to week-long Intox Operator Certification training that Officer Wells is currently enrolled in, he was unable to be at the event. Locust Captain Steven Smith accepted the award on Officer Wells’ behalf.
Also, for the second straight year Officer Trent Middlebrook was named as Stanly County Officer of the Year. Officer Middlebrook again led the department in arrests, DWI arrests, and drug seizures as well as playing a vital role in the investigation and arrest of two Locust residents who were discovered to be selling drugs from their residences. Officer Middlebrook also achieved the status of instructor in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, and is close to achieving the status as one of the few Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) in the region. Officer Middlebrook also completed his two-year Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice in addition to his job duties.
Stanfield Chief of Police Corie Faggart was awarded the “Everyday Hero” award after being nominated by a member of the community. Albemarle Officer Josh Laws and Oakboro Captain Craig Richards were each awarded the “Heart of a Hero” award, a new award added this year. Officer Laws rescued a man from a burning house in 2016, and Captain Richards resuscitated an Oakboro Post Office employee after they had stopped breathing while at work.
Honoring those who have served that we have lost on what is the 10th anniversary of Officer Jeff Shelton being killed in the line of duty, Stanly County Sheriff’s Detective Jamie Shue was honored posthumously with the Outstanding Career Service award. Detective Shue passed away in March after battling non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. His family was in attendance to accept the award in his honor.
Oakboro Officer Damon Smith who was shot and killed in the line of duty in 1996 was also honored. Officer Smith’s family was in attendance to receive a commemorative “locker box” containing equipment and items Officer Smith used in the line of duty. Some of the items in the box including Officer Smith’s service weapon were carried on his uniform on the day that he lost his life in the line of duty. Officer Smith’s family was also informed by Oakboro Chief of Police TJ Smith that Oakboro’s Police Department building was being named the “Officer Damon Smith Building”.
The Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation was started by Officer Shelton’s widow Jennifer to honor Officer Shelton’s memory and create a scholarship in his name for criminal justice students. Officer Jeff Shelton was a Locust resident and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Officer who along with his partner Officer Sean Clarke was ambushed, shot and killed in the line of duty in 2007 during a domestic disturbance call.
Locust Officers nominated for 2017 awards
(L-R): Officer Trent Middlebrook, Captain Steven Smith (accepted award on Officer Dustin Wells’ behalf), Officer Dwayne Dietz, Officer Brittany Tucker, Detective Jeff Shew
(Unable to attend – Officer Dustin Wells, Officer Kevin O’Connor)
Locust Officer Trent Middlebrook with his 2017 Stanly County Officer of the Year award
2017 Award Winners (L-R):
Locust Officer Trent Middlebrook (Officer of the Year), Oakboro Captain Craig Richards (Heart of a Hero), Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Detective Jamie Shue’s twin brother Jason Shue and Detective Shue’s daughters (Accepting Detective Shue’s posthumous Outstanding Career Service Award), Mike Hinson and Jennifer Shelton (Chief Officers of the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation), Albemarle Officer Josh Laws (Heart of a Hero), Stanfield Chief Corie Faggart (Everyday Hero)
(Unable to attend) Locust Officer Dustin Wells (Got Your Six Award)
2017 Crime Briefs Through June
(Some of the notable crime events and arrests by the Locust Police Department through June 2017)
- On January 23rd, Locust Officer Dwayne Dietz responded to a felony crime in progress involving fraud at the Locust Wal-Mart. When he arrived he attempted to stop the vehicle of the suspect when the suspect fled at a high rate of speed. Officer Dietz along with Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies pursued the suspect who engaged in numerous reckless and dangerous maneuvers while also fleeing at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. In the vicinity of the Allen Fire Department on Hwy 601 in Concord, the driver lost control of his vehicle crashing into a utility pole and coming to rest in a gully area on the side of the road. Officer Dietz pursued the suspect on foot having to jump on top of the suspect’s vehicle due to the terrain. When Officer Dietz jumped from the vehicle to continue his foot pursuit, he broke his lower left leg in three places. The suspect, Mr. Milo Daniel Tyler of Charlotte was arrested a short distance away by responding officers. Tyler is charged with multiple felony charges in both Stanly and Cabarrus County and is currently incarcerated in Cabarrus County Jail awaiting trial. Officer Dietz continues rehab on his leg and is expected to be able to return to duty in July or August.
- On March 13th, a vehicle driven by Ms. Stormy Troutman Douglas of Locust was stopped on West Main Street due to Douglas driving with a suspended driver’s license. Upon investigation during the stop of items found, Douglas was arrested and charged with trafficking opium, and possession of marijuana.
- On March 17th, a motorcycle operated by Mr. Brandon Scott Smith of Mint Hill was clocked at 62 in a 45 mph zone on West Main Street near Commercial Blvd. A traffic stop was attempted by Locust officers but Smith attempted to evade by weaving in and out of the traffic flow in the eastbound lane traveling toward Albemarle. Smith continued to evade at speeds in excess of 100 mph. After more than 14 miles Smith was stopped without incident and arrested. Smith was charged with felony flee to elude among other charges.
- On April 14th in early morning hours, a Locust Dominos Pizza delivery driver reported their vehicle stolen from the business. After a month long investigation which involved the recovery of the vehicle, Locust Police were able to charge a 17 year old male from Midland and a 17 year old male from Charlotte with the offense. Although charged as adults, we have reserved the right to not print the 17 year old male’s names.
- On April 28th a Midland citizen reported that their bank card information had been used to make fraudulent purchases multiple times after leaving their card at a Locust business. After investigation, a 17 year old male from Locust who was an employee at the business was charged with three felony charges related to the offense. Although charged as an adult, we have reserved the right to not print the 17 year old male’s name. We have also reserved the right not to print the Locust business name as it was an employee responsible and no one who owns or manages the business.
- On May 2nd, Locust officers observed two individuals acting suspicious in the area of Keys Gun Shop and the Alco service station. Upon running the registration plate of the vehicle the two were occupying, the vehicle came back as stolen out of Charlotte. Mr. Marlon Jermaine Porter Jr. of Concord and Mr. Allahcee Divine Jarrett of Chapel Hill were confronted and arrested without incident. During investigation of the vehicle, multiple items were found that had been reported in multiple breaking and enterings of vehicles in Charlotte. A handgun with a removed serial number was also found. Porter and Jarrett are charged with multiple felony and misdemeanor charges.
- On May 4th, Locust officers responded to a minor traffic crash on East Main Street in front of Locust School. After investigation of one of the involved drivers, Mr. Ronald Lee Barbee of Locust was arrested and charged with driving while impaired as well as felony charges of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver as well as trafficking in Schedule II controlled substances.
- On May 12th, a vehicle displaying a fictitious and revoked registration plate was stopped on Meadowcreek Church Road. After investigation the driver of the vehicle, Mr. David Ryan Okeefe was arrested and charged with felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule I controlled substance. Two handguns were also located and Okeefe was charged with carrying concealed weapons.
2016 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
2016 “Shop With A Cop” Results In Another Successful Community Event
2016 Participating Children And Officers
The Locust Police Department (specifically event organizers Officers Brittany Tucker and Kevin O’Connor) with assistance from the Oakboro and Stanfield Police Departments held the 2016 Shop With A Cop community outreach event on Saturday December 10th, 2016. 21 children were chosen to participate and were fed a delicious (and free!) breakfast from Wayside Restaurant then paired with an officer to enjoy a morning of Christmas shopping at the Locust Wal-Mart. Each child was given $320 donated from many sponsors to spend with half being used for clothing and the other half for whatever they wished to purchase. The smiles were as big on the officer’s faces as they were on the children. This event has become an annual highlight for the officers that give their time to give back to their community and show what the service of law enforcement is all about. Here’s a word from co-event coordinators and Locust Officers Kevin O’Connor and Brittany Tucker:
“Words can’t describe how grateful we are to be able to organize this event. We cannot begin to thank all of our wonderful donors who make this possible. Donations came in from many businesses and citizens in Locust, Oakboro and Stanfield. Special thanks to Stanfield PD Chief Corie Faggart and Oakboro PD Captain Craig Richards for all of your hard work. Thank you to all the officers and deputies who took time out of their day to make this happen. We had representatives from Locust PD, Oakboro PD, Stanfield PD, Misenheimer PD, Badin PD, Mint Hill PD. Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, and Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. Thanks most of all to these amazing kids for letting us spend the morning with them! See ya next year!”
Officer O’Connor and Officer Tucker
Locust Police Department
Smiles And Thumbs Up As Everyone Gets Ready To Shop
Locust Officer Chad Whitley Helps With Shoe Selection
Stanfield Officer Chris McDaniel Pulled Double Duty This Year
Locust Officer Dustin Wells Checks Out A Selected Item
Locust Officers Who Participated With The Children They Were Paired With. Officers Kevin O’Connor And Brittany Tucker Who Co-Coordinated The Event Are Pictured 3rd And 4th From The Left Respectively
Children Were Treated To The “Honor Processional” Treatment Both To And From Wal-Mart
For more photos from the 2016 “Shop With A Cop” event or to keep up with its progress toward next year, visit the event’s Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/shopwithacoplocust/
2016 SHOP WITH A COP COMMUNITY OUTREACH EVENT INFORMATION
Participating Officers And Children At 2015 Event
The Locust Police Department (specifically Officers Brittany Tucker and Kevin O’Connor) with assistance from the Oakboro and Stanfield Police Departments will be holding the 2016 Shop With A Cop community outreach event on Saturday December 10th, 2016. For more information on how you can apply for your child to be part of the event or for how you can donate, please visit the event’s Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/shopwithacoplocust/
You can also receive more information by telephone at 704-888-4744 (ask for Officer Tucker or O’Connor) or through email at bhtlpd@gmail.com or kro11lpd@gmail.com.
DRUG ARRESTS AFTER LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT/STANLY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE JOINT OPERATION
The Locust Police Department recently partnered with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office and Stanly County Drug Task Force in the arrest of two Locust residents on multiple drug distribution and possession charges after lengthy investigations of both subjects. Details as follows:
FOUR ARRESTED IN LOCUST HOME INVASION
In the early morning hours of July 14th, the Locust Police Department responded to the report of a burglary and armed robbery “home invasion” at a residence located on Family Lane off of North Central Avenue. The resident of the address and a visitor were held at gunpoint after entry was made through the front door by two male suspects. The victim suffered a minor injury after being struck in the face by one of the suspects and reported prescription medication, currency, a firearm, and other items of value being stolen.
After initial investigation involving search warrants for phone records, the visitor at the residence at the time of the robbery was determined to be involved. On July 25th, Ms. Donna Christine Hammill of Concord was arrested on charges related to the burglary and robbery as well as felony conspiracy charges.
LOCUST OFFICERS WIN AWARDS AT ANNUAL EVENT
After a one-year hiatus, the Officer Jeff Shelton Foundation returned to Il Bella Gardens on May 17th to hold an awards dinner and silent auction. The event which started in 2013 is held by the foundation as part of National Police Week, and honors Stanly County officers while raising money for their annual scholarship they award to criminal justice students.
As with every other year it has been held, the Locust Police Department was well-represented with finalist nominees for each award; Stanly County Officer Of The Year, the officer nominated “Got Your Six” award, and the community nominated “Every Day Hero” award. This year the foundation also added the Outstanding Career Service Award that resulted in who we believe is the most talented and well-respected law enforcement officer in Stanly County being honored.
Locust Officers Kevin O’Connor and Brittany Tucker along with Badin Sergeant Steven Butler were awarded the Every Day Hero award for their outstanding community work with their annual “Shop With A Cop” Christmas program.
Locust Officer Dwayne Dietz was a finalist for the Got Your Six award for his role in stopping the drunk driver of a stolen vehicle that was being pursued by police and was speeding recklessly toward busy Locust streets when Officer Dietz was able to stop the suspect’s vehicle with a “Stop Sticks” device. Albemarle Officer Lance Fallen was the recipient of the award.
A huge honor was given to Locust Officer Trent Middlebrook who was named as Stanly County Officer of the Year. Middlebrook, who has just over two years of service led the Locust Police Department last year in citations issued, DWI and drug arrests and seizures, as well as working multiple investigations involving prescription fraud that resulted in big arrests being made. Officer Middlebrook is a rare example in our field of someone whose abilities and knowledge far out-distance the amount of time he has served.
The biggest honor of the evening was bestowed upon thirty-year veteran and a former Assistant Chief of the Locust Police Department. Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Captain Eric Thomas was awarded the foundation’s first ever Outstanding Career Service Award for an exemplary and distinguished career that began in the late 1970’s. We can very assuredly say that Captain Thomas is the most well-respected law enforcement figure in all of Stanly County, and there is without a doubt a no more deserving officer in Stanly County for this award than Captain Thomas. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners.
From Left To Right: Badin Sgt. Steven Butler,
Locust Officers Kevin O’Connor, Brittany Tucker, Trent Middlebrook,
Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Captain Eric Thomas
MARCH/APRIL CRIME BRIEFS
- In March and April, the Locust Police Department charged Mr. Reid Huneycutt, Ms. Hannah Dial, Mr. Felix Lopez, Ms. Alesia Butler, and Mr. William Fuchs Jr. with driving while impaired.
- In checking station (“checkpoint”) activity, Mr. Patrick Southerland was charged with felony possession of a Schedule II drug, and Mr. Cornelius Crowder was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon as well as possession of a firearm with an altered or removed serial number.
- In the evening hours of March 5th, a vehicle operated by Mr. Travis Allen Wheeler was clocked by Locust police at 63 mph in a 45 mph zone on Coley Store Road. Wheeler attempted to elude pursuing Locust officers by accelerating to a high rate of speed and cutting off the lights on the vehicle. Wheeler was apprehended at the intersection of Austin Road and Running Creek Road. Wheeler was arrested and charged with felony flee to elude arrest, speeding, no operator’s license, and simple possession of marijuana.
- In the evening hours of April 14th, Locust police responded to the report of suspicious activity involving multiple individuals at the Locust Wal-Mart. Management reported multiple individuals attempting to acquire gift cards with $500 placed on them in addition to purchasing items with gift cards and attempting to return the items for cash refunds upon purchase. After investigation it was discovered that 8 total individuals in two separate vehicles had been at the business with one group of three attempting to convince multiple employees to put $500 increments on gift cards at the business after they would swipe “dummy cards” claiming they were cash cards. These individuals were successful in securing nearly $10,000 in gift cards that they did not purchase. A second group entered the business a short time later with two individuals purchasing electronic items with acquired gift cards and then attempting to return the items for a cash refund. Locust police arrived and were able to apprehend Mr. Marquarious Taylor and Mr. Nigere Fant, both of Flint, Michigan. They were charged with obtaining property by false pretense, and attempt to obtain property by false pretense. Taylor was also charged with resist, obstruct, and delay. After interview, a subject from the group that acquired the $10,000 in gift cards was identified as Ms. Honesty Unique Warren of Savannah, Georgia. Warrants were issued for her arrest. Locust police are also pursuing a felony conspiracy charge for all three subjects.
MEADOWS SUB-DIVISION JUVENILE VANDAL CAUGHT
On the morning of February 21st, Locust officers responded to The Meadows sub-division and the reports of damage to 11 vehicles at different residences that had occurred overnight. Emblems of vehicles were pried off and multiple vehicles had damage involving words scratched into the paint.
In the evening hours of February 25th, Locust officers responded to a fire at a residence under construction at 236 Lagoda Drive. Investigation followed and a juvenile that was currently residing with a relative in the sub-division was identified as a possible suspect.
Stanly County fire investigators and Locust officers spoke with the juvenile about the incidents. The juvenile admitted to starting the fire that severely damaged a door at the construction site. The juvenile also admitted to the multiple incidents of damaged vehicles. The juvenile was transferred to the custody of their parents who live in the Mt. Pleasant area. A juvenile petition was sought through Stanly County juvenile justice officials with further action being turned over to the Stanly County juvenile court system.
FEBRUARY CRIME BRIEFS
- February 21st, Lloyd Anthony Bastfield Jr. of Charlotte took packages of boxer briefs from the Locust Wal-Mart without paying for the items then presented them to customer service as a returned item. Following receiving a fraudulent gift card valued at $36.17, Bastfield Jr. removed a television valued at $428 that was located in a promotional display near the entrance of the business before fleeing the scene in a Toyota passenger car. Bastfield Jr. was apprehended after a vehicle pursuit in Cabarrus County by Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Deputies. Bastfield Jr. was charged in Stanly County with felony obtaining property by false pretense and misdemeanor larceny. Additional charges were also obtained by the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, and all property was recovered. Ms. Julia Potts was also cited by the Locust Police Department for the larceny after she was identified with Bastfield Jr. while he committed the theft.
- February 23rd, Kyong Tae Park of Charlotte arrested on the charges of DWI, felony flee to elude, and speeding. Park was clocked at 76 in a 45 mph zone on West Main Street near Ray Kennedy Drive and did not stop for Locust officers until west of the Rocky River Bridge in Midland. Park blew a .14 level of alcohol concentration on Intox.
- February 24th, Jesse Alexander Baldwin of Stanfield was observed traveling an approximated 45 mph in a 15 mph zone on Ray Kennedy Drive during wet road conditions. Upon stop, he was determined to be impaired. Baldwin blew a .15 level of alcohol concentration on Intox.
- February 27th, JB James Jones of Charlotte was found to remove a laptop computer from a display case at the Locust Wal-Mart by damaging a metal bracket holding the computer in place. Jones was arrested later in the evening by Stanly County Sheriff’s Deputies and Norwood Police Officers in the Norwood area. He was charged with felony larceny by defeating an anti-theft device.
SPEED LIMIT CHANGE NOTICE
** From the NC DOT **
Speed Limit Changes Coming to N.C. 24/27 in Locust
CHARLOTTE – The N.C. Department of Transportation is increasing the speed limit from 35 mph to 45 mph on a 2.2-mile stretch of N.C. 24/27 in Locust.
The department will implement the change on Thursday, Feb. 4, from Kings Drive on westbound N.C. 24/27 to Jenkins Street on eastbound N.C. 24/27. NCDOT studied this stretch of road and determined that the safe and reasonable speed limit, as well as the existing operating speed of motorists, is 45 mph. The speed limit on N.C. 24/27 just beyond these limits is already 45 mph.
On Thursday, NCDOT crews will be working to update existing speed limit signs to reflect the new posted speed. The new speed limit takes effect as soon as the updated signs are installed. Motorists should obey the speed limit at all time and are encouraged to reduce their speed based on conditions.
** From the Locust Police Department **We as a department understand that very few drivers drive exactly the speed limit, and contrary to some erroneous criticism, we do not write speeding citations for traveling 5 miles over the speed limit inside Locust.
That being said however, the amount of speed discretion the department has utilized when the speed limit was 35 will be lowered now that the speed limit will be 45 across Main Street. The reason for that is that the higher the traveling speed, the higher the possibility of traffic crashes occurring and a higher risk for more serious injuries in those crashes.
Although even one mile over the speed limit is technically a violation of the speed limit law, a few miles over the newly established speed limit most likely will not result in a traffic stop. Please use common sense however when deciding what speed you will travel in the newly established speed zones.
13 ARRESTED IN STANLY COUNTY MULTI-AGENCY DRUG OPERATION
** From the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page **
On February 3, 2016 multiple law enforcement jurisdictions conducted an operation to arrest suspected drug dealers in Stanly County after months of investigation. This criminal investigation is a result of complaints from citizens for offenders who were distributing controlled substances within Stanly County. The investigative efforts resulted in the identification of multiple offenders and their locations. In the course of the operation, 2 search warrants were executed and a total of 13 offenders were arrested. The 13 arrests produced 127 different charges ranging from:
• Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Controlled
Substances
• Trafficking Controlled Substances
• Conspiracy to Sell and Deliver Controlled Substances
• Felony Possession of Controlled Substances
• Sell and Deliver Controlled Substances
• Maintaining a Dwelling for Controlled Substances
More charges are pending at this time and also the District Attorney’s Office will be discussing Habitual Offender indictments on certain individuals. Bonds set for all offenders arrested total approximately $475,000. Each person arrested is scheduled for their District Court appearance in Stanly County on February 4, 2016 at 9:30AM.
Agencies that participated;
1- North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement
2- Stanly County Sheriff’s Office
3- Albemarle Police Department
4- Stanfield Police Department
5- Oakboro Police Department
6- Locust Police Department
7- Norwood Police Department
8- Misenheimer Police Department
9- Badin Police Department
10- U.S. Homeland Security Investigations
11- Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms
12- North Carolina Probation and Parole
13- North Carolina Department of Corrections
14- Stanly County District Attorney’s Office
Stanly County Sheriff George T. Burris and Albemarle Police Chief Danny Bowen expressed their gratitude for all the agencies that came to assist during this operation. They both agreed, “it was a great success.”
https://www.facebook.com/stanlysheriff.us/posts/1673229132889209
LOCUST VEHICLE PURSUIT RESULTS IN ARREST
At approximately 11 pm on February 1st, Locust officers received a report of a possible impaired driver traveling east on West Main Street in a silver Chevrolet pick-up truck. Locust Officer Dwayne Dietz observed a vehicle fitting that description make a wide turn onto South Central Avenue from West Main traveling toward Stanfield. Officer Dietz observed the vehicle accelerate and he obtained a Radar clock of the vehicle at 78 mph in a 35 mph zone. When Officer Dietz attempted to stop the vehicle, it continued to accelerate while passing vehicles at speeds around 95 mph. Officer Dietz also observed the vehicle to be traveling erratically weaving and at times traveling in the oncoming lane of traffic. Deputy Harwood of the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office was then able to join in the pursuit near Coyle Road.
After a pursuit of nearly 4 1/2 miles, the suspect vehicle ran off the road to the right just north of Oak Grove Road in Stanfield. When the vehicle attempted to over-correct, it went into the ditch along the road striking fencing before jumping out of the ditch and snapping a telephone pole in half. The driver, Mr. Marcus Andrade of Marshville attempted to flee the vehicle but he got caught in barbwire fencing in the pasture area in addition to unspecified injuries suffered during the crash influencing him to lay on the ground. Mr. Andrade was taken into custody without incident or further injury despite attempting to resist being handcuffed. Andrade was transported to Stanly Regional Hospital before later being transported to the Carolinas Medical Center. His injuries were unspecified but not considered to be life-threatening. No injuries were suffered by the involved officers and no damage caused to involved patrol vehicles.
Warrants were obtained by Officer Dietz for Mr. Andrade on the charges of felony flee to elude arrest, speeding, driving left of center, reckless driving, and resist, obstruct, and delay of an officer. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol also pursued driving while impaired charges for Mr. Andrade.
Following his release from the hospital, Mr. Andrade turned himself into the Stanly County Jail on February 3rd. He posted a $5000 bond and was released pending trial.
2015 NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT HOSTS “SHOP WITH A COP” EVENT
Locust Officers Kevin O’Connor and Brittany Tucker recently organized an event known as “Shop With A Cop” for eligible western Stanly County children. The event, which included cooperation from the Stanfield and Oakboro Police Department was designed to raise money and allow area children in need to have the Christmas experience of a lifetime, all while shopping with their very own Police Officer escort and “assistant”.
The event which took place on Saturday December 12th, ended up being a huge success. More than $10,000 was raised from donations by individual donors and area businesses allowing 27 children to have a wonderful experience, and 27 officers got to show what the service of law enforcement is truly about. Click the link below for the Stanly News & Press article about the event:
LOCUST POLICE MAKE ARRESTS IN ROBBERY AND ASSAULT
At approximately midnight on December 2nd, Locust officers responded to the Hickory Ridge sub-division and the report of an assault and robbery. The victim was found with multiple abrasions and a cut to their thumb after they believed they were meeting with two acquaintances, and was then assaulted by four suspects. The victim reported having their wallet containing $150 and other financial cards stolen along with a “vape” smoking device and a knife.
After investigation, arrests were made on December 4th and December 5th on the charges of felony common law robbery and felony conspiracy. The suspects arrested included:
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- William Eugene Brigman, 19, Locust
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- William Chase Hanline, 20, Stanfield
- Marvin Alexzander Watkins, 18, Oakboro
After further investigation, the fourth suspect was also identified. A warrant for their arrest is currently active.
LOCUST POLICE MAKE HOMICIDE ARREST AFTER BODY FOUND ON ANNEXED PROPERTY
In the evening hours of July 24th, the Locust Police Department responded to the report of a deceased body on fire at the abandoned property located at 8300 NC Hwy 200 North, an annexed property of the City of Locust. Locust investigators, aided by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office identified the deceased victim as Mrs. Donna Marie Perez (aka Donna Marie Helms) of Concord.
Late night on the same evening and early into the following morning, Mr. Randy Lee Edwards of Concord emerged as a person of interest in the case after Concord Police responded to a suicide attempt by Edwards. After thorough investigation over the next several days, probable cause was developed to obtain a warrant for Edwards’ arrest on the charge of murder. Edwards was arrested on August 1st.
Edwards is currently incarcerated and awaiting trial on the charge. The Locust Police Department thanks the NC SBI, Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, and Concord Police Department for all of the assistance and cooperation provided during the investigation.
LOCUST POLICE ARREST DRIVER FOR POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE
A March 21st lunch-time traffic stop thought to be for a routine traffic violation resulted in the arrest of the driver on the charge of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, and deliver methamphetamine among other charges. A vehicle driven by Mr. Charles Eric Snuggs of Oakboro was stopped in the area of the Locust Screen & Frame shop after Locust officers observed the vehicle’s registration plate to be expired.
Investigation during the stop resulted in a search of the vehicle and the discovery of methamphetamine. Mr. Snuggs was placed under arrest and the vehicle was impounded on suspicion that it was being used as a mobile methamphetamine “lab”. A passenger in the vehicle, Mr. Marc Greene Jr. of Albemarle was also arrested on an outstanding arrest warrant and simple possession of a Schedule II drug.
Mr. Snuggs and Mr. Greene were both transported to Stanly County Jail. Mr. Snuggs was formerly charged with two counts of felony possession of Schedule II, felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, and deliver methamphetamine, felony maintaining a vehicle for keeping and selling a controlled substance, felony possession of methamphetamine precursors, felony possession of methamphetamine, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. He was issued a $25,000 secured bond. Mr. Snuggs was also issued a citation for an expired registration plate and expired vehicle inspection.
Mr. Greene was served with the active warrants and formerly charged with Schedule II possession. He was issued a $2500 bond.
VEHICLE BREAK-INS CRIME PREVENTION REMINDER FROM THE LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT
April 13th, 2015
Unlocked vehicle break-ins are still a sporadic problem in Stanly County, with an increase being noticed the last few months. There is no concrete evidence that these break-ins are all being perpetrated by the same individual(s) however, the method has stayed consistent. These thieves are checking for unlocked doors on vehicles and upon finding one, they search through the cars looking for easily removed electronics such as GPS devices, firearms, and money including small amounts of loose change. The perpetrators are even stealing the vehicle if they find a key inside the vehicle anywhere. These individuals are not just checking a few vehicles, they are instead canvassing entire areas looking for unlocked vehicles to steal from.
There are two key elements that have been present with all of these break-ins and larcenies: 1) Valuable property has been left in the victimized vehicles and 2) The doors to these vehicles have been left unlocked. Both of these present factors are easily fixable by you, the vehicle and property owner. These offenses are referred to as “crimes of opportunity”. If you remove the opportunity, most likely the crime will not occur.
The Locust Police Department is again reminding all citizens of the following preventative measures:
– Keep all items of value OUT of your vehicle(s), especially in the late night and early morning hours.
– KEEP YOUR VEHICLE(S) LOCKED AND YOUR WINDOWS UP WHEN YOU WILL BE AWAY FROM YOUR VEHICLE(S), EVEN IF YOU WILL ONLY BE AWAY FOR A FEW MINUTES. It is still a good idea to keep your vehicle(s) secure even if you have removed all valuables.
– Record serial numbers for any items of value that have a serial number and keep this information in a safe place you will remember. Stolen items can be identified through serial numbers.
– NEVER EVER keep a key for the vehicle anywhere near the vehicle. Keep any extra keys in secure locations away from the vehicle. Do not assume you have the “perfect” spot for your back-up key.
– If you notice through press sources that one or more individuals has been arrested for vehicle break-ins in Stanly County, do not assume that the problem has been solved. Breaking in unlocked vehicles has become a major problem nationwide and obviously the same individuals are not responsible for break-ins everywhere.
– If your vehicle is equipped with a car alarm and you hear it go off in the late night or early morning hours, call 911 as soon as possible.
– If you observe ANY suspicious activity around your residence or neighborhood (suspicious vehicles, persons, or activity), especially in the late night and early morning hours, you may call 911 for emergencies and (704)986-3700 for non-emergencies in Stanly County, (704)920-3000 for non-emergencies in Cabarrus County sections of Locust. It is ALWAYS better to be safe than sorry.
-If you go to your vehicle (particularly in the morning) and you happen to observe that it appears your vehicle has been rifled through (property strewn in vehicle, center console or glove compartment open etc.), please resist the urge to open the vehicle doors or closely inspect the interior. Step away and call 911. It is always possible that thieves have left behind evidence that can be useful in investigation.
The Locust Police Department patrols all neighborhoods and areas in Locust however, be aware that if these individuals are on foot while in neighborhoods, it is easy to hide in the shadows if they notice a vehicle driving down the road. The Locust Police Department is asking all citizens to help us prevent break-ins and thefts in our city. Simple tasks such as locking a door or taking an item inside with you at night can make all the difference in preventing the loss of valuable items, and will help to discourage thieves from committing larcenies in Locust. For more crime prevention and safety tips please contact the Locust Police Department or you may request materials by contacting Officer Shew by email at jbslpd@gmail.com.
CRIME BRIEFS JANUARY 2015
- Around midday on January 2nd, Ms. Kristine Bradley of Charlotte was confronted at Wal-Mart by Locust officers after it was alleged she had removed a $70.00 bed comforter from the business and returned it the same day for a fraudulent refund. Ms. Bradley was arrested and transported to Stanly County Jail where she was issued a $2500 secured bond.
- In the mid-afternoon hours of January 2nd, a vehicle driven by Mr. Caleb York of Oakboro was clocked traveling westbound on West Main Street at 61 in a 45 mph zone. When Locust officers attempted to stop Mr. York’s vehicle he accelerated to a speed in excess of 120 mph as well as ran a red signal light. In the area of Loving Road in Midland, Mr. York’s vehicle malfunctioned and he was apprehended. Mr. York was charged with speeding 120 in a 55 mph zone, felony flee to elude arrest, careless and reckless driving, and failing to stop for a red light.
- In the late afternoon hours of January 2nd Thomas Broschart Jr. and Ms. Ashley Jo Holmes both of Albemarle, were stopped by Locust officers at Wal-Mart after they concealed over $100 worth of merchandise and left the business without paying for the items. Both individuals were cited for misdemeanor larceny and Ms. Holmes was also cited for possession of drug paraphernalia.
- During an afternoon vehicle/driver’s violation checkpoint on January 13th, a vehicle driven by Ms. Katherine Crittenden of Mount Pleasant was investigated. Ms. Crittenden was found to be in possession of marijuana and liquor under the age of 21. She was cited for both offenses.
- In the late evening hours of January 17th, a vehicle operated by Mr. Jon Rumph of Charlotte was stopped on Highway 24/27 west near the Locust city limits after it was approximated that he was traveling at 100 mph. Investigation of Mr. Rumph indicated that he was driving while impaired and he was placed under arrest. Mr. Rumph was transported to Cabarrus County Jail where he declined to provide a breath sample.
- In the evening hours of January 18th, Locust Police responded to Wal-Mart about a report of an individual harassing other customers in the parking lot. Investigation revealed that Mr. Kevin Tracy of Midland was in possession of $120 worth of stolen merchandise from the business. It was also determined that Mr. Tracy was driving with a suspended driver’s license. He was cited for both offenses.
- In the late afternoon hours of January 19th, a vehicle was discovered by Locust officers in the parking lot displaying a fictitious registration plate and not having insurance. Shortly after leaving the business, the vehicle was stopped by Locust officers on Commercial Blvd. Ms. Leeann Parker of Albemarle was discovered to be driving with a suspended license and also had an active felony warrant for her arrest out of Anson County. Ms. Parker was transported to Stanly County Jail on the active warrant and issued citations for the other offenses. Further investigation revealed that while Ms. Parker was in Wal-Mart, she returned a stolen item from the business to the customer service desk for a fraudulent refund. A warrant for Ms. Parker on the charge of felony obtaining property by false pretense was issued for the offense.
- On January 28th, a warrant was issued for Mr. John Chad Kluttz of Locust on the charge of domestic assault on a female. Mr. Kluttz turned himself in to Locust officers the following day and transported to Stanly County Jail.
Locust Police Vehicle Pursuit Results In Capture Of Suspect, Wrecked Patrol Car
January 26th – A Locust Police morning vehicle pursuit through multiple communities resulted in the capture of the suspect and a wrecked patrol car, but no major injuries. Locust patrol officer Brandon Stancil clocked a motorcycle at 67 in a 45 mph zone on West Main Street near Stanly Community College. When Officer Stancil attempted to stop the motorcycle for the offense, the driver would not stop and a pursuit ensued.
The driver, Robert Frank Carrick III of Polkton attempted to elude Locust officers through multiple areas of Locust, Stanfield, and Oakboro multiple times traveling left of center and in the opposite lane of travel as well as reaching speeds up to 90 mph. In the area of Rock Hole Road near Highway 200, Officer Stancil lost traction on the roadway resulting in his patrol car hitting an embankment and flipping onto its top. Stancil suffered minor injuries and was helped from his wrecked vehicle by other officers while Locust officers continued the pursuit.
On Philadelphia Church Road, Carrick lost control of his motorcycle and ran into a ditch. Locust officers were able to apprehend Carrick as he attempted to get the motorcycle back onto the roadway. Carrick was transported to Stanly County Jail and charged with multiple offenses including felony flee to elude, speeding 90 in a 55 mph zone, driving while license revoked, and possession of marijuana. Carrick was issued a $5,000 secured bond.
The Stanfield Police Department, Oakboro Police Department, and NC Highway Patrol assisted Locust in the pursuit. No damage to civilian property or injuries to civilians was reported. Officer Stancil’s patrol car was a total loss and another Locust patrol car suffered minor damage.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT HONORS STAN “THE MAN”
By: Officer Jeff Shew, Locust Police Department
Recent events that have occurred in the country have put the field of law enforcement in the spotlight with many expressing a very negative message about our role in society. In Locust, we have been blessed to serve a community that shows us great support for the most part however we, like all other officers nationwide, feel the sting of the criticism by the many that seems to overpower the vocal support of what sometimes seems like the few. We are very grateful to all those we serve in this great city that have shown their support to our department, but we especially wanted to honor one Locust resident whose constant support meant just a little bit more than usual this past year.
Locust resident Stan Preast most folks in the city know better by his nickname, Stan “The Man”. I think most would agree Stan is one of the citizen ambassadors for Locust, and one of the reasons they call Locust “a city with a soul”. I don’t think I’ve been in a restaurant in the city yet that the first dollar spent wasn’t by Stan “The Man”, and any City Council meeting I’ve ever attended Stan was right there, not to complain or cause trouble, but just so he knew what was going on in the city he calls home.
Stan “The Man” has also been a dedicated supporter of the Locust Police Department for the six years I’ve been here, but I’m sure that support started long before my tenure. From his enthusiastic waves every time one of us pass him in our patrol cars on the road (of course we know it’s Stan “The Man”, because he’s the only guy we know that’s cool enough to drive around in a white mini-van with a Playboy bunny license plate on the front), to presenting a plaque of appreciation from the citizens of Locust to Captain Charles Connell at his retirement ceremony, there’s been no doubt that Stan “The Man” is in our corner.
Every Christmas, Stan plays his own version of Santa Claus with the help of others, and leaves Christmas goodie bags in every officer’s box at the office. He doesn’t do it to gain any type of favor, and he doesn’t do it for the credit either as similar to Santa, he always manages to leave them when we’re not around. His reason for doing it is simply to say, “We appreciate what you do”. A lot of things have happened in recent months to make law enforcement seem so negative, the honorable purpose of our job lost in an atmosphere of allegations, criticism, and ill will. So, this year when we walked in to find those bags from Stan “The Man” and others, they meant just a little bit more to us than usual. It reminded us of the fine people that we are serving and protecting, how wonderful the citizens of Locust are, and it reminded us why exactly that we do what we do.
We want all the citizens of Locust who support us to know how much we appreciate you, and this year we especially wanted to make sure Stan knew how much his support year after year means to us. Recently, all the officers at the Locust Police Department signed a thank you card, and this time Stan was presented his own plaque of appreciation from our department to him. If you see Stan, make sure to shake his hand and give him a pat on the back, or if you see the white mini-van with the Playboy bunny license plate give him a hearty wave. He’s one of the good guys, and deserves the appreciation. Thanks for all the years of support Stan; you truly are “The Man”.
Locust Officer Dwayne Dietz presents Locust resident Stan “The Man” Preast with a plaque of appreciation from the Locust Police Department.
2014 AND OLDER NEWS AND PRESS RELEASES
West Stanly Christian Ministries “Day Of Giving” Event Held
Also on Saturday the 13th, West Stanly Christian Ministries held their annual “Day of Giving” event. This event also helps area families in need at Christmas time by providing presents and other supplies for those less fortunate. Locust Officer T.J. Smith was there to assist with the event.
Smith, the coordinator of the Annual Stanly County Public Service/Teacher’s Charity Softball Tournament designated this year’s tournament to benefit the “Day of Giving” campaign, and the tournament had brought in over $2300 to assist with the event. T.J. stated that he was “extraordinarily privileged and extremely humbled by the small part I was able to play”, and “I saw today a group of volunteers with the warmest hearts, giving of themselves just to help others on a day all about giving, in a season that is all about love and giving. There are still so many good people in the world that are willing to go above and beyond to help others.” Stanly County Sheriff George Burris was also on hand to lend his support and a helping hand. Sheriff Burris stated, “It was great to be there and see all the smiling faces. All the volunteers did a great job and helped make a positive difference in the community.”
This year’s “Day of Giving” event was a tremendous success with 125 families and over 300 children given a message of love and a Merry Christmas. Outstanding job T.J.!
To learn more about the “Day of Giving” and West Stanly Christian Ministries, visit their Facebook page.
West Stanly Christian Ministries and “Day of Giving” coordinator Robert Britt with Locust Officer T.J. Smith and Stanly County Sheriff George Burris
Tables full of Christmas presents prior to the “Day of Giving” and Sheriff Burris with event volunteers wrapping presents.
https://www.facebook.com/WestStanlyChristianMinistries
Locust Officers Participate in Christmas “Shop With A Cop” Event
On Saturday December 13th, multiple Stanly County agencies including law enforcement, fire, and EMS came together in the spirit of the season and service to participate in this year’s “Shop with a Cop” charity event. The event, started by former Concord and current Badin officer Steven Butler brings together area public service agencies to help underprivileged children in the Stanly County area give a Merry Christmas to their families, happiness and a little hope, as well as showing the children what true public service is about.
After breakfast served at the Badin Fire Department, each child selected for the event received $300 to purchase Christmas presents at the Albemarle Wal-Mart. They were then paired up with a Stanly County first responder who assisted them in picking out Christmas presents for their families.
This year’s program assisted 21 area children and participating were Locust officers Kevin O’Connor, Chad Whitley, Brittany Tucker, and Sergeant Rick Crayton. All Locust officers stated they were honored to take part in the event that Officer O’Connor called a “career highlight”. Officer O’Connor also stated that they were so inspired by the event that they hope to bring a Locust Police Department sponsored event to the Locust area next year. Awesome job guys and gal!
Officer Kevin O’Connor, Sergeant Rick Crayton, Officer Chad Whitley, and Officer Brittany Tucker with the kids they assisted at “Shop With A Cop”
All The Involved Participants In the 2014 “Shop With A Cop” Day
2ND ANNUAL STANLY COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY/TEACHER’S CHARITY SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT
Saturday September 13th, 2014, Oakboro District Park, starts at 8 am.
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- Nine teams comprised of Stanly County Public Safety (Police, Fire, EMS) and Stanly County teachers battling it out for county bragging rights and the Stanly County traveling trophy in a double elimination tournament battle to the finish.
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- Home run derby prior to the championship game to crown Stanly County’s long ball king.
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- Grilled food will be served, a bounce house will be on-site for the kiddos, and raffles for cash and prizes. Fun, food, and great softball action for everyone!!
- ALL monetary donations will go to West Stanly Christian Ministries’ “Day of Giving” holiday campaign for our areas needy. You can make donations ANYTIME at the Locust Police Department or West Stanly Christian Ministries (please specify the softball tournament when you make a donation)
Canned food/supply drive for West Stanly Christian Ministries’ food pantry for the needy. “We’re going to fill the truck” with supplies. You can donate canned food/supplies ANYTIME at the Locust Police Department or West Stanly Christian Ministries. Help us “fill the truck”!!
Visit our Facebook event page for more information and details or you can email Officer Jeff Shew at jbslpd@gmail.com.
https://www.facebook.com/stancopstcharitysoftball
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME BRIEFS MARCH 2014
– On March 7th, Mr. Travis Tucker of Oakboro was identified at a Locust business. It was discovered that Mr. Tucker had an active order for his arrest on a failure to appear for court charge. Mr. Tucker was placed under arrest by Locust Police and transported to Stanly County Jail. He was issued a $500 secured bond.
– March 8th, Locust Police responded to the report of a larceny of beer at the Alco service station. Mr. Brandon Smith (unreported residence) was stopped for the offense and cited for misdemeanor larceny. His court date was set for April 1st.
– In the early morning hours of March 16th, Locust Police responded to the report of a possible impaired driver at the Alco service station. A vehicle driven by Mr. Michael Shane Ross Jr. of Midland was stopped after Locust Police observed erratic driving. Following road-side investigation, Mr. Ross Jr. was arrested for driving while impaired. After being transported to Stanly County Jail, Mr. Ross Jr. blew a .14 on Intoximeter. He was formally charged with driving while impaired, and careless/reckless driving. He was issued a $1500 secured bond and his court date set for April 22nd.
– Just prior to 1 am on March 25th, Locust Police responded to a traffic crash at the Locust CVS Pharmacy when a vehicle had swerved off of East Main Street and crashed into the building. Mr. Martin Benavides of Oakboro was identified as the driver of the vehicle that struck the building. Investigation discovered that Mr. Benavides appeared to be under the influence of an impairing substance at the time. Mr. Benavides was transported to Stanly Regional Medical Center where blood was drawn to determine the presence of any impairing substance. Mr. Benavides was charged with driving while impaired, careless/reckless driving, and resisting an officer. His court date was set for May 22nd.
– In the evening hours of March 27th, a vehicle operated by Ms. Hannah Tyson of Monroe was stopped by Locust Police for failing to maintain lane control and erratic/unsafe driving. Investigation during the stop revealed prescription medication not prescribed to Ms. Tyson. Ms. Tyson was arrested and transported to Stanly County Jail for illegal simple possession of Schedule II and Schedule IV drugs. She was also charged with careless/reckless driving as well as served with an outstanding arrest warrant out of Union County. Her total bond was set at $2000.
– March 28th, a vehicle operated by Ms. Danielle Lance of Matthews was stopped for traveling 72 in a 55 mph zone near Barbee Road. After detecting the smell of alcohol in the vehicle, further investigation was conducted. After roadside sobriety testing, Ms. Lance was arrested for driving while impaired and transported to Stanly County Jail. Ms. Lance blew a .10 on Intox and was formally charged with DWI and speeding 72 in a 55 mph zone. Ms. Lance was issued a $1000 bond and her court date was set for
April 8th.
– In the morning hours of March 30th, Locust Police utilizing newly acquired department radios able to monitor Cabarrus County law enforcement traffic heard a report of an altercation involved disturbance near County Line Road on Highway 200 North. Locust Police responded towards the area and identified the vehicle involved in the altercation near the Fast Shop location at Meadowcreek Church Road and North Central Avenue. Upon stopping the vehicle, Locust Police identified the driver; Mr. Kelly Manley of Greenville, South Carolina as having an active full-extradition fugitive warrant for his arrest. Mr. Manley was arrested without incident and transported to Stanly County Jail. He was issued a $25,000 bond and confined to await extradition to South Carolina.
LOCUST POLICE ASSIST LINCOLNTON POLICE IN CAPTURE OF WAL-MART ASSAULT SUSPECT
March 21st – In a troubling and bizarre story that ended up in national news, the Locust Police Department assisted the Lincolnton Police Department in identifying a man accused of assaulting a female in a Lincolnton Wal-Mart after he inappropriately began sucking the female’s toes. Mr. Michael Anthony Brown of Concord was accused of convincing a female customer to try shoes on in the businesses shoe department by claiming he was a Podiatry student. When the female removed her shoes, Mr. Brown began sucking on her toes before leaving the business when she reacted negatively to the act.
The Locust Police were able to assist the Lincolnton Police after they posted a picture of the man on local news. Locust Police identified Mr. Brown due to the department having arrested him in 2012 at the Locust Wal-Mart for another foot related offense. In Locust, he had grabbed a woman’s foot and took a picture of it without her permission. Locust Police contacted Lincolnton and gave them Mr. Brown’s information, assisting them in locating and apprehending Mr. Brown that same evening.
Although very odd stories such as these may seem humorous to some, it should be noted that Mr. Brown was convicted of a much more extreme offense involving what is referred to as a “foot fetish” in 2001. That offense resulted in him having to register as a convicted sex offender. The Locust Police were happy to able to assist the Lincolnton Police Department in making an arrest in this case and bringing Mr. Brown to justice. Links to national articles about the incident are below:
http://www.thesmokinggun.com/buster/Walmart-toe-sucker-arrested-698321
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME BRIEFS FEBRUARY 2014
– On February 6th, continued investigation into alleged activities of Ms. Pearl Gabbard of Albemarle resulted in the obtaining of two additional warrants for her arrest on the charges of felony conversion. In recent months, multiple reports were taken regarding activity related to her Bargain Emporium consignment business on South Central Avenue. Investigation of these reports resulted in her arrest in January and the additional warrants obtained from the February 6th report. Without giving specific details related to the cases, the charge of felony conversion in North Carolina can be related to selling the property of another without providing the owner the agreed upon amount upon the sale, or simply selling property that doesn’t belong to the offender without the authorization of the property’s owner. Ms. Gabbard was arrested on the outstanding warrants on February 20th, and issued a $2000 secured bond.
– On February 18th, Mr. Desmond Alford of Locust was arrested without incident on an outstanding warrant for injury to personal property.
– On February 24th, after investigation regarding fraudulent and unauthorized transactions at a Locust business, Mr. Cameron Aldridge of Locust was charged with financial card fraud.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME BRIEFS JANUARY 2014
Some of the recent cases and activities involving the Locust Police Department:
– On December 30th, Locust and Stanfield Police investigated the report of more than $16,000 in unauthorized bank card transactions from a Stanfield resident’s account; the majority of the transactions occurring at a Locust bank ATM. During the investigation, Ms. Tonya Ann Furr of Albemarle was determined to be the suspect in the fraudulent transactions. Warrants were obtained for Ms. Furr and she was placed under arrest on January 9th by the Albemarle Police Department.
– On January 2nd after multiple months of investigation, Ms. Pearl Gabbard of Locust was arrested on two arrest warrants for fraudulent conversion activity.
– On January 6th, a vehicle operated by Ms. Tara Poplin of Richfield was stopped for speeding 60 mph in a 45 mph zone on West Main Street near Jenkins Street. Investigation during the stop also revealed Ms. Poplin’s driver’s license revoked and an outstanding warrant for her arrest. Ms. Poplin was cited for speeding and driving while license revoked, and she was transported to Stanly County Jail on the active warrant.
– On January 26th, a vehicle operated by Mr. Hunter Scott was stopped on South Central Avenue due to Locust officers being aware of an active warrant for Mr. Scott’s arrest on a probation violation. Mr. Scott was placed under arrest without incident and transported to Stanly County Jail. He was issued a $5000 bond.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME BRIEFS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013
On November 18th, 2013 in the early morning hours, Locust Police received a report of a home invasion at a residence on Coley Store Road near the intersection of Bethel Church Road in the jurisdiction of the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office. The Locust Police Department responded after a mutual aid request was made by Stanly County. Locust Police located a white in color Lincoln passenger car in the vicinity of the crime area and witnessed the vehicle make an unsafe movement on Bethel Church Road. The vehicle; driven by Mr. Hunter Scott of Albemarle and occupied by Ms. Heather Carpenter of Locust, was stopped on Austin Road. Investigation was turned over to the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office and later revealed that both Scott and Carpenter had knowledge and information involving the home invasion. Subsequent interview and investigation led Stanly County detectives to two individuals responsible for the home invasion. All four suspects were charged with offenses related to the crimes.
Shortly before 3 am on December 14th, a vehicle operated by Ms. Lauren Johnson of Waxhaw was stopped for traveling 51 in a 35 mph zone on West Main Street near Church Street. Upon stopping the vehicle, Locust Police suspected Ms. Johnson to be impaired. After administering standardized roadside field sobriety tests, Ms. Johnson was placed under arrest for driving while impaired. At Stanly County Jail, Ms. Johnson refused to provide an adequate breath sample to Intox. She was formally charged with driving while impaired and for speeding 51 in a 35 mph zone.
LOCUST POLICE ASSIST IN CABARRUS COUNTY VEHICLE PURSUIT/ARREST
On Tuesday January 21st at approximately 8:00 am, the Locust Police Department was requested to assist the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office in a vehicle pursuit of a stolen vehicle. The pursuit began on Branchview Road in Cabarrus County when a white SUV was discovered driving recklessly, and then discovered to be stolen out of the Mint Hill, NC area. The pursuit continued south on Highway 200 North toward Locust reaching speeds in excess of 90 miles per hour, and the Locust Police Department was requested to assist. In the area of County Line Road on Highway 200 North, the vehicle pulled to the side of the highway. Two vehicle occupants were apprehended immediately by Cabarrus County deputies while the driver of the vehicle fled the area on foot in the vicinity of Mineral Drive. A search of the area for the suspect began with cooperation between Cabarrus County deputies, Locust Police, Stanfield Police, and the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office. After canvassing a large area near Mineral Drive for more than an hour, Locust Police located the suspect; Mr.Richard Long of Charlotte attempting to hide in an abandoned mobile home. Mr. Long was apprehended without incident, and custody transferred to the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office. Long was transported to the Cabarrus County Jail to be processed on multiple charges.
October-December 2013 Crime Briefs
On October 10th, Locust Police responded to the report of a stolen wallet at Wal-Mart. Upon viewing security camera footage from the store, Mr. Bradley James McAlexander of Midland was identified as the suspect. The wallet was returned to the business however Mr. McAlexander refused to return to speak with Locust officers. An arrest warrant was obtained for Mr. McAlexander on the charge of misdemeanor larceny and he was arrested on October 13th. Mr. McAlexander’s next court date is January 7th.
October 21st, Locust Police took a report of a larceny at Wal-Mart related to a push-out of approximately $600 in merchandise. After investigating security camera footage, Mr. Steven Wayne Crowley of Rockingham was identified as the suspect. Warrants were obtained on the newly established count of felony habitual larceny for Mr. Crowley; who has been convicted of multiple larcenies in the past. Further investigation discovered that in mid-November, Mr. Crowley was apprehended and was at the time incarcerated in Richmond County. Locust warrants were transferred to Richmond County for service on Mr. Crowley.
On September 30th, Locust Police took the report of a felony larceny at Wal-Mart that had been discovered to take place on September 29th. Security camera footage showed a white male using a cutting tool to remove multiple electronic items with a total value near $900 from a locked case in the business. Investigation of the security footage identified the suspect to be Mr. Donald Travis Cochran of Albemarle. Warrants were obtained for Mr. Cochran and he was apprehended on October 25th. Again on November 15th, Locust Police were on-scene at Wal-Mart in an unmarked vehicle when Mr. Cochran arrived at the business, accompanied by Ms. Kristen Nicole Willis of Albemarle. Mr. Cochran was arrested for driving with a revoked license and also on additional warrants for his arrest that were active from both Cabarrus and Union counties. Ms. Willis was also arrested on an outstanding warrant from Cabarrus County.
Shortly after midnight on November 26th, Locust Police initiated a traffic stop of a vehicle for a revoked registration plate and no insurance on West Main Street near Meadowcreek Church Road. Investigation during the stop also revealed that the driver; Mr. Nathan McDonald of Ellerbe had an outstanding warrant for his arrest for communicating threats in Moore County. Mr. McDonald was transported to Stanly County Jail and served with the outstanding warrant as well as issued citations for displaying a revoked registration plate and not having vehicle insurance.
In the late evening hours of November 30th, Locust Police observed a Ford Explorer run a red stoplight at the intersection of Main Street and Central Avenue. Upon stopping the vehicle, Locust Police detected the odor of marijuana in the vehicle. Investigation revealed that the driver; Mr. John Dakota Jenkins of Locust was in possession of a small amount of marijuana, marijuana paraphernalia, as well as a concealed “stun gun” weapon. Mr. Jenkins was placed under arrest and transported to Stanly County Jail. Mr. Jenkins was formally charged with failing to stop for a red light, simple possession of Schedule VI, possession of drug paraphernalia, and carrying an illegal concealed weapon. His court date was set for January 7th, 2014.
On December 2nd, Locust Police responded to Food Lion to investigate an attempt to obtain property by false pretense. Investigation revealed that Mr. Kyle Dustin Creese of Albemarle walked into the business and selected food items from the shelves. He then placed the items in a bag and attempted to return the stolen items for a refund. Mr. Creese was placed under arrest for the attempt of obtaining property by false pretense and transported to Stanly County Jail. Mr. Creese was given a $1000 bond amount and permanently banned from the Locust Food Lion.
September/October Crime Briefs
September 12th, Ms. Ketta Cooper of Albemarle was stopped while leaving Cabarrus Family Medicine off West Main Street after suspected impaired driving. Cooper blew a .09 alcohol concentration on Intox and was formally charged with driving while impaired.
September 14th, Mr. Timothy Cunningham was stopped for speeding on East Main Street near North Beverly Drive. Investigation through the NCAware warrant database revealed an active arrest warrant for Mr. Cunningham as well as a suspended driver’s license. Mr. Cunningham was arrested on the active warrant, as well as issued citations for speeding 57 in a 35 mph zone and driving while license revoked.
September 20th, Locust Police responded to a single vehicle accident on Browns Hill Road. The driver; Mr. Casey Darrell Crayton was arrested for driving while impaired after investigation. Mr. Crayton blew a .20 alcohol concentration on Intox, and formally charged with DWI as well as reckless driving.
September 20th, Locust Police responded to a verbal altercation at Taco Bell. One of the vehicles involved attempted to leave the scene and was stopped at Murphy’s Express. After investigation, the driver; Mr. Rickie Lindale Coble of Charlotte was arrested for driving while impaired. Mr. Coble blew a .22 alcohol concentration on Intox at Stanly County Jail and was formally charged with DWI and driving while license revoked.
October 6th, Locust Police responded to a larceny in progress at Wal-Mart. Ms. Melissa Currie and Mr. Antonio Cordani were stopped and found with nearly $200 worth of stolen merchandise. Ms. Currie; a previous Wal-Mart offender was issued a citation for second degree trespass and misdemeanor larceny. Mr. Cordani was issued a citation for misdemeanor larceny.
October 21st, Mr. David Kemp of Stanfield was identified by Locust officers on surveillance camera footage at Food Lion after walking out of the business with a case of beer without paying for it. He was apprehended and issued a citation for misdemeanor larceny.
STANLY COUNTY POLICE, FIRE, EMS, AND TEACHERS COME TOGETHER FOR CHARITY SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT WEST STANLY FIREFIGHTER WITH LEUKEMIA
Several months ago, Officer T.J. Smith of the Locust Police Department responded to the report of a young man that was found homeless and living inside Officer Jeff Shelton Park. Instead of dismissing the young man or simply running him off, he listened to his story and felt compelled to do whatever he could to help him. After consulting with Live Again Ministries of Locust, as well as Patsy Street and Robert Britt of West Stanly Christian Ministries in Stanfield, they were able to help the young man with a place to live and help finding employment. “Helping people is one of the reasons I entered law enforcement, and it was a great feeling to play a small part in helping someone in a rough spot get back on their feet. Live Again Ministries and West Stanly Christian Ministries are wonderful organizations helping those in need, and I started thinking about what the public safety community in Stanly County could do to help too. Then I had the idea of a charity softball tournament” Smith said.
Initially, Officer Smith along with several others who volunteered to help began planning a charity softball tournament for members of Stanly County law enforcement, fire, and EMS to raise money to help West Stanly Christian Ministries with their mission. At the same time, Steven Shaw, a Captain with the West Stanly Fire Department was going to the doctor after he began losing weight and not feeling well. Captain Shaw found out that he had been diagnosed with leukemia, sending a shockwave through the Stanly County public safety community. Smith said, “Literally the same week we started planning the tournament, Steven found out he had leukemia. I knew then we just had to have the tournament to help him out. Robert at West Stanly Christian Ministries gave me his blessing to run the tournament for Steven and offered any help that he could.” West Stanly Christian Ministries agreed to set up an account for Shaw so money raised could be used to help Shaw and his family with extensive medical costs in fighting the disease. Shaw’s wife Emily; a teacher at West Stanly Middle School, also organized teachers in the county to contribute as well.
On Saturday November 9th, the First Annual Stanly County Public Safety/Teacher’s Charity Softball Tournament to benefit Captain Steven Shaw will take place. The double elimination tournament will begin at 8:00 am at Officer Jeff Shelton Park in Locust and Oakboro District Park in Oakboro. All tournament games from 12:00 pm on will take place at Jeff Shelton Park, culminating in a home run derby at 5:00 pm and the tournament’s championship game starting at 6:00 pm. The first annual event features ten teams comprised of players from agencies across the county coming together for the common cause of helping Captain Shaw in his fight. Agencies participating include: Police officers from Locust, Stanfield, Oakboro, Albemarle, Norwood, and Misenheimer Police Departments, as well as deputies from the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office. Troopers from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol will also be participating as well as officers from North Carolina Wildlife. Firefighters from West Stanly, Oakboro, and several other agencies will be participating including Captain Shaw who is managing one of the West Stanly teams. Stanly County Paramedics and an entire team of Stanly County teachers including Shaw’s wife Emily are also included in the event. Besides raising money for a great cause, all the teams will be vying for Stanly County bragging rights and a tournament plaque that will be kept by the winning team for the entire year.
The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. “We’re really hoping the public we’ll help us make this event a HUGE success for Steven. We’ll have hamburgers and hot dogs available for everyone until we run out, some side events for the kids, and of course some good ole fashioned softball action!” said Smith. Donations for Captain Shaw will be collected during the event along with the donations already collected from entry fees and charitable contributions from businesses and individuals in Stanly County. Tournament co-coordinator Officer Jeff Shew of the Locust Police Department added, “We’re really hoping this is the start of an annual tradition of public safety and teachers in Stanly County coming together to raise money and help however we can. Just the interest that has been shown for the tournament this year and wanting to help Captain Shaw really shows how wonderful people in Stanly County are at coming together for a great cause.” “We hope to see everyone come out for some fun, fellowship, and to see who gets Stanly County bragging rights……all for a great cause November 9th!” Smith added.
The First Annual Stanly County Public Safety/Teacher’s Charity Softball Tournament begins at 8:00 am on Saturday, November 9th with one game being played at Jeff Shelton Park and two games at Oakboro District Park. Games continue all day until the tournament championship at 6:00 pm. For more tournament information, visit the tournament’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/694608170553592/?ref=br_tf. Or you can find out more by emailing Officer Jeff Shew atjbslpd@gmail.com or contacting Officer TJ Smith at (704)239-7752.
RESIDENCE BREAK-IN AND GUN THEFT RESULT IN TWO FELONY ARRESTS
Shortly before midnight on August 20th, Locust Police responded to an Oakland Street address and the report of the residence being broken into and four firearms stolen. Through early morning interviews and investigation, Mr. Ryan Gage Smith and Mr. Christopher Darryl Smith both of Locust were identified as suspects.
On the morning of August 21st, Locust investigators conducted additional investigation and were able to recover two of the stolen firearms. Warrants for both Ryan and Christopher Smith were obtained on one count of felony breaking and entering and four counts of felony larceny of a firearm.
On August 26th, Stanly County Sheriff Deputies located and arrested Christopher Smith and he was transported to Stanly County Jail. Mr. Smith was served with the warrants and given a $15,000 bond.
On August 28th, Stanly County Sheriff Deputies also located and arrested Ryan Smith. Mr. Smith was booked into Stanly County Jail. The bond amount was unspecified as of press time.
ARRESTS MADE AND CHARGES BROUGHT IN WAL-MART FELONY FRAUD CASE
In the late afternoon of August 19th, Locust Police responded to the report of multiple larcenies and fraud at the Locust Wal-Mart. It was discovered that a group of individuals had been in the business earlier in the day multiple times concealing or walking out of the business with hundreds of dollars’ worth of assorted merchandise. It was also discovered that two of the individuals identified would then re-enter the business and fraudulently return the stolen items for gift cards. Through investigation, these two individuals were identified as Mr. Brian Matthew Torbett and Mr. Tom Lee Furr, both of Oakboro. Locust Police obtained arrest warrants for both individuals.
On August 20th, an individual identified as being involved in the August 19th theft activity again was observed in the business. Locust Police responded and apprehended Mr. Jesse Daniel Clay of Ansonville. Mr. Clay was issued two citations for misdemeanor larceny based on offenses from both August 19th and 20th.
On August 28th, both Mr. Torbett and Mr. Clay were arrested by the Oakboro Police Department after being discovered at the Oakboro Family Dollar. Both subjects were transported to Stanly County Jail. Mr. Furr was served on one count of misdemeanor larceny and one count of felony obtaining property by false pretense. Mr. Torbett was served on one count of felony obtaining property by false pretense. Investigation in the case is still on-going.
LOCUST VEHICLE CHASE LEADS TO RECOVERED STOLEN PROPERTY, FELONY ARRESTS
Approximately 3:15 am on June 11th, 2013 Locust Police responded to the report of a suspicious vehicle circling the parking lot of Wal-Mart. When officers arrived the vehicle, a Dodge Magnum passenger car, was spotted not making a complete stop at a red light on Red Bridge Boulevard and the vehicle was stopped near Reed Mine Road on Highway 24/27.
Shortly after the stop was made, the vehicle fled the scene and Locust officers pursued. After making a turn onto Highway 601, the driver of the suspect vehicle discovered to be Ms. Desiree Lee Gorman of Fountain Inn, South Carolina lost control of the vehicle causing it to strike a fire hydrant in front of Tractor Supply in Midland. Ms. Gorman and a passenger, Mr. Reginald Edward Gillespie of Greenville, South Carolina ran from the vehicle and after a brief foot chase, both suspects were apprehended.
Investigation following the crash and apprehension revealed over $5200 in stolen merchandise from Wal-Marts in Locust, Concord, and Kannapolis inside the suspect vehicle which was determined to be a rental car.
Initial charges for Ms. Gorman included felony flee to elude, improper passing, driving on the wrong side of the road, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resist, delay, and obstruct an officer. She was confined in Cabarrus County Jail under a $15,000 bond. Initial charges for Mr. Gillespie included carrying a concealed weapon and resist, delay, and obstruct an officer. He was confined in Cabarrus County Jail under a $10,000 bond.
Investigation the following day revealed that Mr. Gillespie had stolen over $2000 of the merchandise at the Locust Wal-Mart by pushing items out of a rear fire door at the business; a felony in North Carolina. Additional Stanly County charges against Mr. Gillespie were issued for the felony larceny as well as for Ms. Gorman. Additional Cabarrus County charges were unknown but expected, and warrants were obtained in Haywood County for similar crimes after investigation as a result of these arrests.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT WEEKEND UPDATE
For the Locust Police Department this past weekend, a slightly lower level of reported incidents and calls for service resulted in increased traffic enforcement for the department.
For the weekend, the Locust Police Department conducted 33 traffic stops resulting in 22 charges. Of those 22 charges, 17 speeding citations were issued. Other charges included displaying a revoked registration plate and operating a vehicle without insurance.
In the early evening hours of Saturday April 20th, a vehicle operated by Mr. Alex Ivan Banegas-Martinez of Charlotte was stopped for speeding 51 in a 35 mph zone on South Central Avenue. A warrant check through the NCAware warrant database revealed five outstanding orders for arrest out of Union County. Mr. Martinez was placed under arrest, transported to Stanly County Jail and served with the active warrants. Mr. Martinez was issued a $5000 secured bond for the active warrants. Mr. Martinez was also cited for speeding and driving while license revoked.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT JANUARY 2013 UPDATE
Here’s a look at some of the law enforcement activities of the Locust Police Department for the first month of 2013:
In the early evening hours of January 8th, Locust officers responded to the report of shoplifting in progress at the Locust Wal-Mart. Locust Police were able to locate Mr. Roger Wayne Allen Jr. and Ms. Deirdre Rochelle Hinson, both of Midland, NC still inside the business. Locust officers found both individuals in possession of over $200 in concealed merchandise. Mr. Allen and Ms. Hinson were placed under arrest and transported to Stanly County Jail. Both received a $1000 bond and a court date of February 6th, 2013.
On the evening of January 17th, Mr. David Keith Allison of Locust was identified after the report of a domestic violence assault. Mr. Allison, who sustained injuries during the reported incident, was transported to Stanly Regional Medical Center. Upon Mr. Allison’s release, he was served with an arrest warrant for domestic violence assault on a female. His court date was set for February 13th.
In the late evening hours of January 21st, a Mercedes automobile operated by Ms. Tamisha Deanna Grace of Charlotte was stopped for failing to have two operable headlights. After a concealed gun was observed in the vehicle by Locust officers a passenger, Mr. Dimetric Javant’e Fleming of Albemarle was placed under arrest. Mr. Fleming was also found to be in possession of cocaine and marijuana. Mr. Fleming was transported to Stanly County Jail and formally charged with illegally carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Mr. Fleming was issued a $25,000 bond. Ms. Grace was cited for a headlight violation.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT BEST WISHES TO RETIRING OFFICER, FRIEND
December 31st, 2012 marked the end of an era for the Locust Police Department as long standing Captain Charles L. Connell retired, ending a 33 year law enforcement career.
Captain Connell, a United States Army veteran attended Basic Law Enforcement training at the Charlotte Police Academy in 1978. His law enforcement career began in Locust in 1979 followed also by stints with the Stanfield Police Department. Captain Connell served as Chief of Police for the Stanfield Police Department for a time and was responsible for giving current Locust Chief of Police Frank Hartsell his first job in law enforcement. In 1993, Captain Connell became a full-time Locust officer where he would remain for the next 20 years until his recent retirement.
In Captain Connell’s last month with the department, his contributions, service and dedication were celebrated. Locust officers presented Captain Connell with a shadow box commemorating his service to Stanly County and his last year in law enforcement with the Locust Police Department. At a retirement celebration hosted by the city on December 28th, Captain Connell was presented a plaque commemorating and thanking him for his service to the city of Locust. And finally on January 10th at the monthly City Council meeting, Captain Connell was presented his Captain’s badge and service weapon by Chief Hartsell to honor his service. The United States Secret Service also presented Captain Connell with a plaque honoring his career as well as his assistance in a large fraudulent check ring investigation that he assisted in putting an end to. Captain Connell was also presented a plaque by Locust resident Stan “The Man” Preast on behalf of Locust citizens thanking him for his service. Finally, Captain Connell was given a standing ovation, a fitting tribute to a deserving officer and a distinguished career.
Captain Connell thanked the city and stated, “I’ve enjoyed working for the city and we have the best group of officers here in Locust that we’ve ever had.” “I’ve talked to every one of them, and I might be leaving the job, but I’m still going to be close by. I’ll be there any time they need anything.” (Credit: Stanly News & Press)
Captain Connell will remain in the Stanly County area and plans to just enjoy retirement with his wife. All of us at the Locust Police Department want to thank Captain Connell for his outstanding service and congratulate him on a very well deserved retirement. We will all miss Captain Connell around the office, but wish him and his family the very best.
LOCUST POLICE ARREST THREE ON OUTSTANDING WARRANTS
The Locust Police Department recently arrested three individuals in unrelated incidents, after confirming existing outstanding arrest warrants through the NCAware warrant database program.
On March 21st shortly before 2:30 am, a traffic stop was initiated to investigate evidence of impaired driving after observing a vehicle weaving in its lane several times. The driver, Ms. Chelsea Jourdan Higgins of Midland, was found not to be impaired however her driver’s license was found to be suspended. Ms. Higgins was cited for driving while license revoked and driving left of center. A passenger in the vehicle, Mr. Christian Dakota Kidd of Albemarle, was found to have an active arrest warrant out of Mecklenburg County for failure to appear. Mr. Kidd was placed under arrest and transported to Stanly County Jail where he was served with the active warrant and issued a $500 bond.
On March 29th at approximately 3:45 pm, the Locust Police responded to a local Locust business after being notified that an individual with an active order for their arrest was at the business. A traffic stop of a vehicle transporting Mr. Clyde Lee Pennington was initiated once Stanly Communications confirmed the active warrant through NCAware. Mr. Pennington of Locust, was placed under arrest and transported to Stanly County Jail where he was served with the warrant on charges including; two counts of assault on a female and one count of communicating threats. Mr. Pennington was placed on a 48 hour domestic violence hold and his court date set for April 18th. The driver of the vehicle transporting Mr. Pennington, Ms. Cindy Marie Pennington of Locust, was found to have a suspended driver’s license. The truck she was operating also displayed a fictitious and revoked registration plate. Ms. Pennington was cited for driving while license revoked, displaying a fictitious and revoked registration plate, and failing to register a motor vehicle in North Carolina. Locust Police seized the fictitious/revoked plate, towed the vehicle, and Ms. Pennington’s court date was set for April 17th.
On March 29th at approximately 5:00 pm, the Locust Police Department responded to a residence on Meadowcreek Church Road after confirming an active warrant for trespassing through NCAware. Mr. Jamie William Hinson of Locust was placed under arrest and transported to Stanly County Jail. Mr. Hinson was served with the warrant and issued a $500 bond.
NCAware is a compiled database of all active warrants issued anywhere in North Carolina and allows easy access for officers searching for outstanding warrants on individuals during encounters. Used in conjunction with the National Crime Information Center database, NCAware has proven to be an invaluable resource for the Locust Police Department and law enforcement officers statewide, aiding in the apprehension of criminal fugitives and absconders.
LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT WEEKEND REPORT MARCH 16-18
– For the weekend of March 16-18, the Locust Police Department responded to or initiated 37 calls of varying nature. Of these calls, 2 incidents of breaking and entering were reported, an arrest on an outstanding warrant for communicating threats was made, and a criminal summons on a misdemeanor charge was issued.
– There were 37 traffic stops conducted during the weekend and a multi-agency checkpoint conducted on the late evening/early morning of March 16-17. Total citations issued during traffic stops and checkpoint activities totaled 44 and included 19 speeding violations, 2 driving while license revoked, 2 no operator’s license charges, 1 charge of possession of marijuana, 4 charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, 3 charges of consumption of alcohol under the age of 21, and 1 charge of provisional DWI.
Crime Prevention Alert
POSSIBLE TELEPHONE FRAUD OCCURRING IN LOCUST
The Locust Police Department has received reports that some citizens are receiving telephone calls at their residence from individuals claiming to be representatives of local area businesses. Caller ID on these calls are even showing the name and number of the local business. When these citizens have answered the phone, the calling party will then either attempt to sell some type of merchandise, or offer to assist in lowering the interest rate on current credit cards. Shortly after these offers are made, the calling party will begin asking questions about account balances and other account information associated with the credit card. There has also been a report of an individual that received a call requesting a donation to the Locust Police Department, once again requesting financial information for this fraudulent donation.
The Locust Police Department strongly advises all citizens to never give any information out over the telephone regarding any of your personal or financial information, including your Social Security Number. The Locust Police Department also advises that if you are considering any type of action that involves the release of any personal or financial information, that you do your research on the business or individual you are consulting with to be absolutely sure they are reputable. It is also highly recommended that any financial services you are considering, the individual you are consulting with should be sitting in front of you, preferably in an office, while completing any documentation. If you are completing transactions on the internet, again be sure that you have researched the service you are using to be sure they are reputable. When you are making a payment or transferring funds, make sure you are using a secure service such as PayPal.
Finally, we would also like to inform all citizens that as of the current date, March 1st, 2012, the Locust Police Department is NOT conducting any fund raising activities. If there is ever a time in the future that we would hold any type of fund raiser, those donations would never be solicited over the phone. Please keep these tips in mind and report any suspicious activity to the Locust Police Department.
2012 Urban Archery Hunting Season
Urban Archery/Bow-and-Arrow deer hunting is allowed within the municipal limits of the City of Locust on private property, with property owner permission, a valid NC Hunting license, and any other licensing, permits, and registrations required by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (www.ncwildlife.org, 919-707-0010). The season is from January 14, 2012 through February 18, 2012.
We do not have a list of property owners who will allow hunting on their property. There are no City owned properties where hunting is allowed.
TRAFFIC STOPS RESULT IN DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED CHARGES, ADDING TO DECEMBER’S TOTAL
The Locust Police Department recently made traffic stops that discovered the drivers were impaired. This brings December’s total to 5 DWI charges.
In the early morning hours of December 17th, a vehicle driven by Ms. Morgan Taylor Gravitte of Albemarle was stopped in the Hickory Ridge sub-division after observing the vehicle suspiciously driving into the neighborhood in the early morning hours and observing a minor traffic violation.
Upon stopping the vehicle, Locust Police smelled the odor of alcohol inside the vehicle. After further investigation, Ms. Gravitte was requested to give a breath sample into an Alco-Sensor portable breath device. Ms. Gravitte blew a positive level of alcohol concentration.
Although Ms. Gravitte was under the legal limit of alcohol impairment prescribed by the state of North Carolina, Ms. Gravitte was cited for Provisional Driving While Impaired based on the North Carolina statute that it is against the law for any individual under the age of 21 to operate a vehicle with alcohol remaining in their system. Ms. Gravitte was also cited for Driving Outside of a Restriction on her license and issued a written warning for having an Inoperable Registration Plate Light.
A passenger, Ms. Erin Michelle Burleyson of Mount Pleasant was cited for Aiding & Abetting Provisional Driving While Impaired as well as Allowing an Unlicensed Driver to Drive.
In the mid-day hours of December 18th, a vehicle operated by Mr. James Ryan Dennis was stopped after observing his vehicle travel left of the center line and driving 47 mph in a 35 mph zone.
After smelling the odor of alcohol in the vehicle and finding open containers of alcohol, Mr. Dennis was requested to perform roadside field sobriety tests. Mr. Dennis was placed under arrest for Driving While Impaired and transported to Stanly County Jail. There Mr. Dennis blew a .10 on Intoximeter, .02 higher than North Carolina’s legal limit.
Mr. Corie Stanback, a passenger in Mr. Dennis’ vehicle, was cited for Possessing an Open Container of Alcohol in a vehicle.
WAL-MART LARCENY FOILED BY LOCUST POLICE DEPARTMENT RESULTS IN FELONY CHARGES
In the evening hours of December 16th after being observed by Wal-Mart loss prevention removing DVD’s from their packaging and concealing them, a vehicle driven by Mr. Ketric Dewan Allen of Norwood was stopped by the Locust Police Department as he attempted to leave the parking lot.
Further investigation revealed that Mr. Allen had removed $85 worth of DVDs from their packaging containing security strips and concealing them in his clothing, circumventing Wal-Mart’s inventory control system. Mr. Allen was found in possession of the DVDs and arrested for Larceny by Removing Anti-Theft Inventory Control Device, constituting a felony in North Carolina
Mr. Allen was transported to Stanly County Jail where he was formally booked on multiple Felony Larceny charges as well as a related Misdemeanor Larceny charge. A secured bond of $1500 and a court date of January 24th, 2012 was issued for Mr. Allen.
MORE TRAFFIC STOPS RESULT IN ARREST/DRUG CHARGES
Adding to a recent trend, the Locust Police Department recently made more traffic stops that resulted in arrest and drug charges.
Shortly before midnight on December 12th, a vehicle operated by Mr. Ryan Andrew Brown of Charlotte was stopped in front of the Crutchfield campus for traveling 60 mph in a 45 mph zone. After smelling a strong odor of marijuana and observing partially smoked marijuana in the vehicle, it was discovered that Mr. Brown was in possession of 9.4 grams of marijuana. Also found in his possession was a marijuana pipe smoking device. A passenger in the vehicle, Ms. Cassandra Anna Redman of Locust was found in possession of 8.29 grams of marijuana, a marijuana pipe smoking device, and a marijuana “grinder” device. Mr. Brown was cited for Speeding 60 in a 45, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Ms. Redman was cited for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Both individual’s court date was set for January 24th.
In the early morning hours of December 13th, after receiving a call from a concerned citizen who observed a possibly intoxicated driver traveling toward Locust from Midland, a vehicle operated by Mr. Joseph Carlyle Trull of Stanfield was stopped near Church Street, after observing the vehicle traveling in excess of the posted 35 mph speed limit as well as suspiciously pulling into a closed business parking lot and turning the vehicle’s lights off. After investigation it was determined that Mr. Trull was intoxicated and he was placed under arrest for Driving While Impaired. After arrest, it was discovered through a search of the vehicle several items of drug paraphernalia. Mr. Trull was charged with Driving While Impaired, Driving After Consuming Alcohol Under 21, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Exceeding a Posted Speed Limit. His court date was set for January 24th.
DWI HIT AND RUN SUSPECT APPREHENDED
In the early morning hours of October 23rd, a driver who had caused property damage with their vehicle in Stanfield was caught by the Locust Police Department on Vella Drive in Locust and discovered to be Driving While Impaired.
Ms. Keriston Janielle Hinson of Locust had apparently gone off the road in her vehicle on Love Mill Road destroying a mail box and fencing of a cow pasture. Ms. Hinson was approached by a passer-by who stopped to check her well-being but then Ms. Hinson drove off from the scene of the damage at a high rate of speed. The passer-by was able to stay close enough to Ms. Hinson’s vehicle to allow Stanly County 911 to relay her location to law enforcement. The Locust Police Department with great assistance and cooperation from the Stanfield Police Department was able to stop Ms. Hinson at the intersection of Vella Drive and East Main Street. Ms. Hinson was arrested by the Locust Police Department on the charge of Driving While Impaired, and cited by the Stanfield Police Department for hit and run/leaving the scene of a traffic crash. Ms. Hinson’s alcohol level was determined to be .18, over twice the legal limit allowed in North Carolina.
SHOPLIFTER CAUGHT
On November 6th, the Locust Police Department responded to the report of a larceny in progress call at Wal-Mart. With the aid of alert surveillance by Wal-Mart’s loss prevention office, the Locust Police Department was able to confront Mr. Ronald Deese of Stanfield, who had removed a knife from its packaging and concealed it in his pocket with the intent of stealing it from the business.
The $40.00 knife was recovered and returned to Wal-Mart. Mr. Deese was cited for Shoplifting/Concealment Of Merchandise.
FELONY BREAKING AND ENTERING SUSPECTS CAUGHT
On August 26th, 2011, after a call from a helpful citizen and only a 1 minute response time by the Locust Police Department, two suspects were arrested after shattering a vehicle’s window in the parking lot area of the Locust Wal-Mart, and attempting to flee the scene with several valuable items from inside the vehicle.
Mr. Jonathan David Bridges of Ashley Road in Charlotte, NC, and Mr. William Warren Charles of Heathstead Place in Charlotte, were observed shattering the window of a Chevrolet pick-up truck in the parking lot of Wal-Mart. The two then snatched a GPS device, a RADAR detector device, and a bag containing a drill before attempting to flag a car down to flee the scene.
The quick response time from the Locust Police Department allowed both subjects to be apprehended while they attempted to hide the items at the outside area of McDonalds. Mr. Charles was charged with Felony Breaking And Entering of a Vehicle, Damage to Property, Misdemeanor Larceny, as well as Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Mr. Bridges was also charged with Felony Breaking And Entering of a Vehicle, Damage to Property, Misdemeanor Larceny and Resist, and Obstruct, And Delay of an Officer. Mr. Bridges was also found to have an outstanding arrest warrant out of Gaston County for Misdemeanor Larceny. Both subjects were confined under a $3000 secured bond. All items stolen were recovered by the Locust Police Department and returned to the victim.
IDENTITY THEFT SUSPECT CHARGED
On September 10th, 2011, after being notified of a theft of a purse from the Midland, NC area and an ensuing investigation, Ms. Megan Brooke Kenney of Rodney Street in Locust was identified as the prime suspect in a case of Financial Card Fraud and Identity Theft.
Originally reported in Cabarrus County, the stolen purse was found in the possession of Ms. Kennedy at her address. Additional investigation of security camera footage at the Locust Food Lion and the Locust Alco, as well as the helpful cooperation of the victim providing bank records, it was discovered that Ms. Kennedy had used the victim’s bank card at both locations.
Warrants were obtained for Ms. Kennedy for 3 counts of Identity Theft, 3 counts of Financial Card Fraud, and 1 count of Possession of Stolen Property. Ms. Kennedy was apprehended 3 days later and confined under a $10,000 secured bond.
MULTIPLE FELONIOUS LARCENY SUSPECT APPREHENDED
On September 14th, 2011, after being identified by Wal-Mart personnel and security camera footage, as well as a 3 minute response time by the Locust Police Department, Ms. Stacy Renee Shaw of Monta Drive in Concord, NC was arrested and charged with 3 counts of Felonious Larceny By Anti-Inventory Device.
Ms. Shaw on the current day, as well as on two previous occasions, had entered the Locust Wal-Mart and removed multiple items from packaging containing security strips. The strips cause an alarm to sound if not deactivated before leaving the business, and removing items from these packages to avoid setting off the alarm constitutes a felony in North Carolina.
Ms. Shaw had taken a total value of $704.57 in merchandise during the three thefts with $285.88 worth of merchandise being recovered by the Locust Police Department. Ms. Shaw was confined under a $5000 secured bond.
KING’S HEIGHTS/SHERWOOD PARK NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH ESTABLISHED
A neighborhood watch has been established for the King’s Heights/Sherwood Park area through the cooperative efforts of the Locust Police Department and the outstanding residents of the King’s Heights/Sherwood Park neighborhood.
An orientation meeting was held in August at the Locust Police Department with a tremendous turnout of nearly 30 neighborhood residents. Helpful information packets as well as neighborhood crime prevention tips were handed out and detailed, and the resident’s current concerns were addressed.
Officer J.B. Shew of the Locust Police Department said, “The King’s Heights/Sherwood Park area continues to be a safe neighborhood to live in, but we wanted to take the same pro-active preventative approach with crime prevention that the City of Locust takes with our Police Department. And that’s to prevent any major problems from starting to begin with. Cooperation and education is the key and we try to stress how helpful neighborhood residents can be in reporting and helping us prevent as well as solve crimes.”
Officer Shew and Officer T.E. Smith will be heading up the program for the King’s Heights/Sherwood Park area, with the help of Neighborhood Watch coordinator Sergeant S.R. Smith. Both officers plan to keep residents informed through e-mail as well as a monthly newsletter of current Locust Police Department events, monthly crime stats, and helpful information. New Neighborhood Watch signs have already been placed in the neighborhood.
Any Locust neighborhoods that are interested in establishing a Neighborhood Watch, please contact Sgt. Smith at (704)888-4744.