FROM STAFF REPORTS
Iredell County Sheriff’s Office investigators have identified two suspects in a string of break-ins throughout the county.
Late last month the ICSO began receiving reports of break-ins of various homes, motor vehicles and outbuildings, Sheriff Darren Campbell said in a news release. The victims in the cases reported the theft of lawn equipment, power tools, guns, jewelry, bags, purses and shoes.
During the investigation, investigators determined the suspects were driving a gray vehicle with a hatchback. The suspects appeared to be a male and a female, according to the news release.
Through the help of the victims and concerned citizens who live near where the break-ins occurred, investigators obtained video surveillance, which led them to identify Caitlin Amber Conner, 23, and Nicholas Dale Johnson, 27, as suspects.
Investigators located the hatchback but the suspects had acquired a Kia Optima and obtained arrest warrants for Conner and Johnson.
On May 12, investigators learned that Conner and Johnson were suspects in a breaking and entering in the Town of Mooresville, Campbell said. They were reportedly traveling in a blue Chevy Impala.
Patrol deputies to be on the lookout for this vehicle, which was located a short time later. After deputies attempted to stop the Impala, both suspects fled on foot after a short pursuit, Campbell said.
Deputies converged on the area and a K9 and ICSO drone were deployed to assist.
A short time later Conner was located and taken into custody on Fox Avenue in Statesville, according to the news release. Johnson was not located.
Conner was arrested and charged with five counts of Felony Break and Enter, Felony Conspiracy to Break and Enter, two counts of Felony Break and Enter of Motor Vehicle, Felony Aid and Abet Larceny, Felony Larceny, four counts of Felony Larceny after Break and Enter, two counts of Felony Identity Theft, Felony Possession of Stolen Goods, six counts of Misdemeanor Larceny, Misdemeanor Injury to Personal Property, and two counts of Misdemeanor Conspiracy.
Conner was given a $160,000.00 secured bond by Magistrate Thompson.
After learning that the suspects had been staying at the Motel 6 for several days, investigators executed a search warrant on the motel room and located several items believed to be stolen, according to the news release.
On May 13, investigators also executed a search warrant on the vehicle that Conner and Johnson were in and located stolen property from the most recent break-ins, Campbell said.
Johnson has outstanding warrants and anyone that knows his whereabouts is urged to call the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office at 704-878-3100 or Crime Stoppers at 704-662-1340.