Sheriff Darren Campbell stated:  On 12/10/206 Deputy Z. A. Sherrill was dispatched to 200 Clontz Hill Rd in reference to vehicles being broken into over the night. Upon deputy’s arrival he was advised by the homeowner, that multiple credit cards belonging to himself as well as his sons, were taken out of the vehicles as well as other personal items. The victim advised the deputy he received notifications of his company’s bank card being used at Sheetz at exit 42 and the Mooresville Walmart.  Deputy Sherrill then responded to both locations and was able to identify the suspect on the surveillance video of both stores as a white male driving a black and white in color truck. Deputy Sherrill then checked with local residents on Clontz Hill Rd. in attempt to identify the male subject in the videos.

Deputies spoke with an individual at 250 Clontz Hill who was able to identify the male as Lance but did not know his last name.  While in the area deputy Sherrill saw a vehicle matching the type of truck that is seen in the surveillance video and attempted to stop the vehicle.  The vehicle in question turned down into 277 Clontz Hill and drove out of sight of the deputy into the wood line.  Deputy Sherrill then located the vehicle parked behind a row of trees planted in front of a nearby wood line.  The deputy located a female in the vehicle, by the name of Christin Laws who advised Lance had jumped and ran into the woods towards Flowerhouse Loop Rd.

It was discovered that the truck Lance was stolen out of Lincoln County.   Additional deputies arrived on scene to attempt to locate Lance.  Detective Lowrance arrived on scene and began speaking with Mrs. Laws, who told deputies that Lance’s last name was Alton.  Deputy Sherrill then left the scene to obtain warrants on Lance Alton. Shortly after the deputy’s departure, Lance was located by other deputies and placed under arrest.  Lance was transported to the Iredell County Detention Facility. Warrants obtained by the deputy were served on Lance as well as two warrants that Lance had outstanding in another county.  Lance was given a $55,000 secure bond and a first appearance on 12/12/2016.

Lance was charged with Breaking and Entering Motor Vehicle 4 counts, Identity Theft 4 counts, Financial Card Theft 2 counts, Possession Stolen Motor Vehicle, and Misdemeanor Larceny.