FROM STAFF REPORTS

A western Iredell County resident faces a felony charge in connection with the theft of thousands of dollars from a convenience store where she worked.

Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell announced the arrest of Tammy Jo Fitzwater, 51, of Ashley Brook Lane, Statesville, in a news release.

The Sheriff’s Office began an investigation on Saturday, September 21, after being contacted by a representative of a convenience store located on Old Mountain Road regarding an employee suspected of theft, Campbell said.

During the investigation, Detective I. Creasy obtained key evidence, including security camera footage and business records, which revealed that Fitzwater had stolen several thousand dollars from the business, according to the news release.

Fitzwater was interviewed and admitted stealing the money, Campbell said.

Detectives recovered a portion of the stolen money and returned it to the business, according to the news release.

Fitzwater was arrested and transported to the Iredell County Detention Center, where she was charged with felony larceny by an employee.

Magistrate Thompson issued Fitzwater a $7,500 secured bond.