MOUNT VERNON — There have been several recent break-ins in the area, all with a similar pattern. The perpetrators are apparently looking for portable items such as coins and jewelry that are easy to pawn or sell for scrap gold. Houses on Tucker, Blue and Martinsburg roads have reportedly been among those targeted by the robbers.
Two of the alleged burglars were apprehended Thursday while trying to sell stolen items. Sheriff David Shaffer said Knox County Sheriff’s Office detectives picked up Nicholas Parsons in downtown Mount Vernon as suspects in the break-ins. A female was with Parsons when he was arrested. At this time, she has not been charged.
Assistant County Prosecutor Jennifer Springer confirmed that fourth-degree felony burglary charges have been filed against Parsons and that there will be a bond hearing in Mount Vernon Municipal Court early next week.
Parsons is in the Knox County Jail. He was indicted earlier this month on a heroin possession charge.
To help deter such thieves, Springer said citizens should always be vigilant.
“If you are leaving for work during the day, turn off your porch light,” she said. “Make sure your house is secured. Try to keep your valuables secured and hidden, or ideally keep them in a safety deposit box in a bank.”
Contact Pamela Schehl
EmailCopyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.