56-year-old Timothy Lee Rankin of Newbern Avenue in Statesville was arrested by Iredell County Sheriff’s Officers. He’s charged with felony counts of breaking and entering and possession of burglary tools. In addition, Rankin is charged with four counts of misdemeanor larceny, along with single misdemeanor counts of damage to property and resist, obstruct and delay of an officer. He’s also charged with driving while license revoked.

Last Wednesday (September 20), Iredell County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to the area of Tuckers Road in Statesville, in reference to a suspicious person. Officers found the suspicious person and began to question the man, Timothy Lee Rankin. Rankin said he was there to do yardwork for the homeowner and attempted to crank a push mower. The homeowner was then questioned about this and she indicated that she did not know the man nor did she have someone doing the yardwork for her.

The suspect then attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by deputies. Upon further questioning the suspect reportedly admitted to taking a vehicle earlier the same morning from another victim. Inside the vehicle were various stolen items including power tools, an air compressor, chainsaws, a generator, and gas cans.

Multiple victims on Tucker Road reported that a suspect matching the same description had been on their property and had stolen various items. Detectives canvassed the area as they continued the investigation. They spoke with neighbors and witnesses and were able to determine where the stolen property came from. Rankin was brought to the Iredell County Detention Center. He remained in jail as of earlier today (September 27) under a total bond of $27,500. A District Court date is set for October 11. The investigation is continuing and more charges are possible.