The Sampson County Sheriff's Office said two cars that were reported stolen from dealerships in Raleigh and in Pitt County were found at a home on Jackson Lane in Turkey.
Deputies also said an additional vehicle that was stolen from Pitt County was also recovered in Newton Grove the following morning.
Authorities said the seven-month investigation involved 20 separate auto thefts and larcenies across eight counties.
Deputies took 27-year-old Ellis Wilson, of Faison, into custody. He was served more than 30 warrants and is being held at the Sampson County Detention Center under a $187,700 bond.
If you have any information about auto thefts in the area, please contact the Sheriff's Office at (910) 592-4141.