CHADBOURN, N.C. – Two people are behind bars and more arrests are expected in connection with a multi-state theft ring targeting mobile home dealerships and construction sites across North and South Carolina.
Elvis Geronimo Oxendine Jr., 29, and Deanna Marie Lambert, both of Lumberton, were arrested Friday by the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office. Oxendine is facing four counts of breaking and entering, larceny, property damage, and first-degree trespassing. Lambert has been charged with conspiracy.
In addition, Oxendine was wanted in Robeson County on charges of:
Discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle
Possession of a firearm by a felon
Resisting an officer
Probation violation
According to Chadbourn Police Chief Ken Elliot, the case is still unfolding, with charges pending in at least eight other jurisdictions, including Chadbourn, Whiteville, Lumberton, Fayetteville, and multiple locations in South Carolina, such as Myrtle Beach, Clarendon County, and Florence County.
The investigation began on August 22, when Chadbourn officers spotted a U-Haul truck backed up to a mobile home at the Oakwood dealership during a routine patrol. Though no suspects were found at the scene, officers discovered multiple mobile homes had been broken into and appliances stolen.
Authorities say the theft ring may be responsible for stealing over $100,000 in property. Oxendine and Lambert are believed to be part of a broader network targeting vulnerable sites for high-value items.
“This case is a perfect example of how multiagency cooperation can make a positive impact on our community,” said Chief Elliot.
The investigation remains active and additional arrests are expected as authorities continue sharing intelligence across state lines.
