NORTH CAROLINA — Two people have been arrested in connection with separate theft investigations totaling more than $16,000, according to the Franklin Police Department.
Police said the first arrest stems from an April 2 incident at the new Franklin High School construction site. Authorities allege that tools and equipment valued at approximately $7,657 were stolen. Chad Wesley Spates was arrested in connection with the case.
Spates faces charges including felony breaking and entering, felony larceny after breaking and entering, breaking into a construction site, and two counts of possession of stolen property. His bond was set at $50,000.
The second arrest occurred following a reported theft on April 28 involving storage units on Sloan Road. Police said Matthew Owen Carpenter is accused of cutting locks on the units and stealing equipment and supplies valued at about $8,725.
Officers reported locating some of the stolen property hidden inside a utility trailer beneath freshly cut bamboo.
Carpenter has been charged with two counts each of breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, and possession of stolen property. His bond was set at $20,000.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
