A metal theft suspect in the Tillery and Halifax areas was caught at a Bertie County scrap yard this morning and arrested.

Another suspect in the cases was arrested last week by the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office.

Whitaker

Detective R. Somogyi of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office said Phillip Shearin, 24, and Donald Whitaker, 32, both of Rich Square, were allegedly identified as suspects in the metal theft cases that occurred March 15.

Somogyi said around 3 p.m. last month the sheriff’s office responded to a call in the Highway 561 area of Halifax. The call was about the theft of scrap metal from behind an abandoned house.

Suspects at the scene fled into the woods upon the arrival of Deputy Thomas Sewell. Sewell and Lieutenant Neil Aycock located the alleged suspects’ vehicle in the area.

Somogyi assisted in the investigation and located another residential break-in.

Somogyi, after talking to the owner, learned a refrigerator, gas heater and chairs were taken from the residence. They also allegedly attempted to take a heating oil tank.

The investigation also tied the same suspects to two additional break-ins at the Tillery Community Center where window air conditioner units were taken.

The items were taken to a salvage yard in Bertie County.  

Arrest Warrants were obtained for both men on counts of breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of stolen property, larceny and damage to real property.

Whitaker was arrested April 10 by the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office and jailed on $11,000 bond.

Shearin was arrested today after Somogyi received a tip he was at the Bertie County scrap yard. The Bertie County Sheriff’s Office arrested him. He was jailed on $10,000 bond.

The men have May 1 court dates in Halifax County.