STATESVILLE, N.C. – A repeat offender has been arrested after he allegedly broke into an O’Reilly’s Auto Parts store on Sunday in Statesville.
Police responded to a break-in alarm on North Cedar Street near Main Street around 2am on July 28th. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the store had been broken into and the cash registers were missing.
While in route to the scene, a patrol officer said they witnessed a suspect attempting to hide behind a nearby residence. The officer approached the suspect, who then fled on foot, according to a news release.
After a short pursuit, officers say the suspect was arrested and identified as 59-year-old Michael Cromwell, of Statesville.
Michael Todd Cromwell
Cromwell was found in possession of burglary tools and was positively identified as the individual responsible for the break-in, according to a news release.
The stolen cash registers were also recovered at the scene, according to police.
Cromwell was interview by investigators at the Statesville Police Department and is believed to be involved in several other recent break-ins in the area over the past few months.
Cromwell is being held in jail without bond pending his first court appearance.
Police say Cromwell has an extensive history of commercial breaking and entering offenses, tampering with coin-operated machines, and possession of burglary tools, with offenses dating back to 1986.
He was released from prison on February 6, 2023 after serving a 10-year sentence for similar offenses. Police say the investigation continues and further charges are expected.
