Two charged in larceny, meth ring; one suspect still at large
Published 7:05 pm Tuesday, July 10, 2018
- Donald Lee Beaver
SALISBURY — Rowan County authorities say two men have been linked to a number of larcenies and break-ins in the Cleveland and Mount Ulla areas.
Witnesses said the men rode four-wheelers near the crime scenes.
Thomas Corbin, 24, was charged in the thefts. Authorities are still looking for Donald Lee Beaver, 24.
Officials say the two men stole powers tools, other tools, firearms, electronics, money and other items.
Rowan County Sheriff’s Office detectives investigating complaints found that Beaver and Corbin were causing substantial damage to crops in the area while riding four-wheelers.
Both men also were suspected of using and selling methamphetamine and other drugs. Detectives searched several buildings in Mount Ulla and Cleveland and recovered stolen property that was returned to the owners.
On Sunday, investigators went to several locations trying to locate Beaver and Corbin. About 10:30 p.m., detectives saw Corbin walking on Amity Hill Road in Cleveland.
Corbin ran from the investigators. After a short foot chase, Corbin was arrested and found to be in possession of a concealed weapon and 8 grams of crystal methamphetamine, as well as plastic bags and digital scales.
Corbin was charged with resisting, delaying and obstructing an officer; carrying a concealed weapon; possession of drug paraphernalia; felony possession with intent to sell and deliver meth; felony possession of a stolen motor vehicle; misdemeanor probation violation; and failure to appear in court.
More charges are expected as the investigation continues, authorities said. Corbin remains in jail under a $55,000 secured bond.
Arrest warrants were obtained for Beaver charging him with five counts of felony larceny of a motor vehicle, misdemeanor possession of stolen property and misdemeanor larceny.
Beaver has been added to the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office most-wanted list and is thought to be in the Cleveland or Mount Ulla area. Beaver is often seen riding a four-wheeler, authorities said.
Anyone with information on these crimes or the location of Beaver is asked to contact Sgt. Rodney Mahaley at 704-216-8711, Detective Kyle Youngo at 704-216-8683 or Detective Travis Allen at 704-216-8715.