An extensive investigation by Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department officers led to the arrest of two people, with four additional warrants issued.
The investigation into burglaries in the county has been ongoing for about two months, according to Det. Bobby Morelock.
“We’ve seized 22 four-wheelers, four dirt bikes, two utility trailers and numerous tools,” he said, adding that the items were found in the Cave Springs area.
“Our officers have worked hard to break this theft ring,” said Sheriff David Ray. “I’m proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
Jody Collins and Paige Russell, both of Tazewell, have been arrested in connection with the investigation.
Collins was charged with six counts of burglary over $1,000. Bond was set at $100,000 secured.
Russell was charged with aggravated burglary and violation of probation. Her bond was also set at $100,000 secured.
Most of the burglaries took place in the Clouds, Cave Springs, Cedar Fork, Bacchus and Dogwood Heights areas, said Morelock.
“Items that were seized have been claimed to date, and detectives will notify any and all victims if items matching their property is found,” he said. “Information is still being gained by Claiborne investigators David Honeycutt, Josh Russell, Brad Duncan and myself.”
Investigators learned there were four others involved in the alleged theft ring and warrants have been issued for their arrest, he said.
The investigation began when Deputies Jacob Day and Jason Henegar confronted a subject that opened up the lead to numerous stolen items in the Cave Springs, Clouds and Bacchus areas.
Investigators have valued the seized property at over $80,000.
“There’s still a lot of work to do in this investigation,” Morelock said. “There are items being found that were taken during thefts dating back to 2001, and this is a drug related problem.”
Morelock stated that if you have any information concerning thefts or stolen property please call 423-851-4606. You can also call the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department at 423-626-3385 and ask for any of the investigators on the case.
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