Serial break-in suspect arrested after stealing cash registers from O’Reilly’s Auto Parts

STATESVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A serial breaking and entering suspect was arrested after stealing cash registers from an O’Reilly’s Auto Parts store.

On July 28, around 2 a.m., Statesville officers responded to a break-in alarm at the O’Reilly’s Auto Parts at 528 N. Center St.

When officers arrived, they discovered that the store had been broken into and the cash registers were missing.

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A patrol officer was headed to the scene when they spotted someone attempting to hide behind a nearby residence. The officer approached the suspect, who then fled on foot.

After a brief pursuit, the suspect was apprehended and identified as Michael Todd Cromwell, 59, of Statesville.

Cromwell was found in possession of burglary tools and was positively identified as the individual responsible for the break-in at O’Reilly’s. The stolen cash registers were also recovered.

Cromwell is believed to be involved in several other recent break-ins in the area over the past few months. He has an extensive history of commercial breaking and entering offenses, tampering with coin-operated machines and other offenses dating back to 1986.

Cromwell was released from prison on February 6, 2023, after serving a 10-year sentence for similar offenses.

He is currently being held without bond pending his first court appearance.

Police say the investigation is still active and more charges against Cromwell are expected.

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