Residents of Mitchell County woke up to a spree of vehicle break-ins on the morning of Jan. 2. The Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has arrested of two individuals connected to the incidents.
The series of break-ins, which saw valuables including firearms and financial cards stolen, spanned from the southern end of Mitchell County to the northern areas, including Bakersville and Spruce Pine.
The MCSO received the initial report of a vehicle break-in just outside Bakersville, prompting an immediate response from deputies. During their search, several items reported stolen were found discarded near a local church.
The MCSO’s investigation intensified throughout the day, with additional reports of similar incidents coming in. By utilizing investigative tools and resources, including surveillance footage from a gas station in Hampton, Tennessee, MCSO investigators identified a dark-colored 2013 Honda Crosstour used in the crimes. This lead enabled the investigators to track down and arrest Scott Nathaniel Presnell of Lenoir, and Dillon Ray Byrd of Caldwell County. Both have been charged with two counts of felony breaking/entering motor vehicle with theft, with additional charges pending.
“I discovered the break-in when heading to work on Tuesday,” said one of the victims Taylor Winchester. “My car’s console was open, and items including my wallet and my child’s Christmas gifts were missing.”
Her swift action in contacting law enforcement, and the prompt response of Detective Stacey Hughes of the MCSO, were instrumental in the quick resolution of the case.
“Detective Hughes and the local law enforcement were exceptional in their response and investigation,” Winchester added. She was informed that despite the arrests, her stolen items were likely sold or discarded by the suspects.
“While it’s disheartening not to recover my belongings, the quick arrests have likely prevented further incidents, and for that, I’m very grateful,” said Winchester.