Two arrested, two on run in theft of church trailer in Lincoln County

LINCOLN COUNTY, N.C. — Two people were arrested and warrants have been obtained for two others in connection with the theft of an enclosed trailer from Real Life Community Church on East Highway 27 in Iron Station.

A larceny report was filed on Sept. 12 by church officials regarding the theft of the trailer from church property which contained camping supplies.

Investigators said they learned the next day that 47-year-old Willie Cox Jr. was a possible suspect.

While searching Cox’s home, Gaston County officers said the stolen camping supplies were found.

Recovered were an Ozark trail tent, a Coleman lantern, a two-burner cooking stove, a Blackstone flat top grill and a white plastic cargo container with air mattresses, propane tanks and various camping supplies.

The property was identified by church officials and returned to the church.

During the investigation, officers said one of the thieves confessed.

Johnny Leon Jackson, 46, was arrested Tuesday on charges of felony larceny and felony conspiracy.

Darren Dwayne Kelley, 45, is charged with one felony count each of larceny and conspiracy.

Police said the trailer has not been found and they believe it to have been taken out of state.

Cox, Jr. and Michael Shane Moore, 43, are charged with one felony count each of larceny and conspiracy, but have not been arrested.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Cox and Moore is asked to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 704-732-9050 or the Lincoln County Communications Center at 704-735-8202.

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