Fayetteville police ID suspect, person of interest in Christmas break-in
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- Fayetteville police have identified and charged a man in a recent home break-in, and they say they're also looking for the man who most likely helped him clean out the house right before Christmas.
Jamal Walters, 26, is facing breaking and entering, larceny, possession of stolen goods, felony conspiracy, larceny of a firearm, and possession of a stolen firearm charges. On Thursday, police identified and charged Walters, who they say is seen in surveillance images from a Dec. 19 break-in on Turnberry Circle.
Police also said they believe the second man in the video is Dexter Sutton, Jr. Sutton may be the owner of the getaway car used in what police have described as a random break-in in an affluent neighborhood.
"They like to steal," said Detective Robert Ramirez of FPD's property crimes unit. "Walters has an extensive burglary history. Big time. He's even on probation as we speak."
Authorities said their tip line has been buzzing since they released the surveillance images on Wednesday afternoon. They said Walters and Sutton were in and out of the home in about half an hour that day, taking off with gifts including electronics, jewelry, and a handgun. It happened while the homeowner was out shopping.
"They just came straight to the neighborhood, and picked her house first and went straight to her house and cleaned her out like you said," explained Ramirez.
Police believe the men are somewhere together. Neighbors said there have been several recent, similar incidents. In September, another Turnberry Circle neighbor reported being held at gunpoint while checking his mail.
Read more: Police say homeowner armed robberies connected
Ramirez said the victim did everything right in this instance -- locked up, turned on surveillance, secured belongings, and switched up the routine. His only advice is to get to know your neighbors.
"Sometimes it's good to leave the house, come back, tell a neighbor 'I'll be gone, [call if you see] anything suspicious....', advised Ramirez. "Always inform your neighbors. You should be able to trust a neighbor or two. Tell 'em when you're going to be gone."
