A Wayne County man has been arrested and faces multiple charges following a series of break-ins at sweepstakes businesses in Lenoir County, North Carolina. According to authorities, 33-year-old Brian Morton of Dudley was apprehended on Saturday after deputies responded to an alarm call at Carolina Sweepstakes, located on U.S. 70 West.
When deputies arrived, they saw Morton and an accomplice fleeing the scene. While Morton was captured, the other individual managed to escape and remains at large.
Morton has been charged with two counts of felony breaking and entering, possession of burglary tools, conspiracy, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Investigators also linked Morton to additional break-ins at three other sweepstakes businesses across Lenoir County. These incidents, which occurred multiple times since June, have resulted in a total of 32 charges against him.
The charges Morton faces include nine counts of felony breaking and entering, seven counts of felony safecracking, three counts of felony larceny after breaking and entering, and eight counts of felony conspiracy. Officials say these crimes involved gaining unauthorized access to safes and stealing property from the businesses.
Morton is currently being held without bond due to the severity and volume of the charges. Authorities are continuing to investigate the break-ins and are working to identify and locate Morton’s accomplice.
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information regarding these incidents or the second suspect to come forward. This case highlights ongoing concerns about sweepstakes businesses, which are often targeted for their cash reserves.
Deputies credit a quick response to the alarm at Carolina Sweepstakes for Morton’s capture. However, with a pattern of repeat offenses, law enforcement officials are focused on preventing further crimes of this nature and bringing all involved parties to justice.
