A Chapel Hill woman involved in multiple vehicle break-ins in Pitt County has been arrested, deputies said.
On June 1, the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Edwards Acres subdivision near Britt Road and Jay Circle regarding a suspicious person.
A citizen called when he saw a female with a flashlight entering vehicles in the neighborhood.
Citizens pointed arriving deputies to the cul de sac of Jay Circle.
Deputies met two community residents standing by with the female suspect and her car.
A visual inspection noted an array of varied items loose in the vehicle that were thought to be stolen, deputies said.
The suspect was identified as Drew A. Barlowe, 22 years of age, of Chapel Hill.
Barlowe was placed into custody.
Deputies canvassed the area to alert residents to check their cars.
According to a release, Barlowe admitted that she walked the neighborhood trying car doors. If they were locked she left them alone and continued. If they were unlocked she went through them taking what she could.
So far a total of eight victims have been identified, deputies said.
Deputies said the items stolen included over $200, prescription medications, headphones, jewelry and a 9mm handgun.
Identified property was returned to the owners.
Some property could not be linked with owners so the vehicle and all contents were seized as evidence.
Barlowe was taken to the Pitt County Detention Center under a $180,000 bond.
She was charged with:
- Nine felony counts of breaking and entering of a vehicle
- Six misdemeanor counts of larceny
- One felony count of larceny of a firearm
- One felony count of larceny of chose in action
- Two misdemeanor counts of injury to personal property
Deputies recommend citizens to keep car doors locked and to remain aware of activity in neighborhoods and report any concerns.
