Break-Ins Jump In North Charlotte Neighborhoods

CHARLOTTE, N.C.,None — Break-ins have skyrocketed in several north Charlotte neighborhoods, in an area bordered by Interstate 85, West Sugar Creek Road and Nevin Community Park.

According to police records, there have been 99 break-ins in the area from January to April. That's a 33 percent jump from the same time period last year.

Residents of the Woodstone Community and other nearby neighborhoods said it's a quiet area, which makes the recent spate of break-ins all the more troubling to them.

Detective Tom Ferguson said he thinks criminals enter area neighborhoods through several trails that provide ways to get in and out quickly.

"We've actually discovered some of the items here," Ferguson said, pointing to a trail.

In the wooded area around the community, police have found stolen goods, like flat-screen TVs, laptops and guns.

"Once inside [a home], they're looking for anything they can sell quickly," Ferguson said.

Police recently arrested three people in connection with the break-ins: 18-year-old Jimareo Sherrill, 19-year-old Alex Pearson and a 15-year-old. The 15-year-old is accused of committing nine of the break-ins.

Officers said others may be connected to the break-ins.

Sherrell Smith moved to the area a year ago, and said many of her neighbors' homes have been broken into. Some homes, she said, have even been burglarized twice.

"It's very concerning," she said.

Smith said the suspects throw rocks at the homes they are targeting to see if anyone comes outside, so they will know if the home is occupied.

Smith said she wants a fence put to prevent more crime.

"It's very frustrating because this is our home," she said. "This is our community. We're ready for quiet enjoyment."

Police said the suspects in the break-ins will likely be back on the streets. But officers hope electronic monitoring bracelets and increased patrols will help stop more crimes.

WSOC