Sumter police search for suspect in utility trailer theft
1 suspect is being held in Sumter-Lee Detention Center
Police are looking for Douglas Edward Tipton, 56, in connection with a theft of a utility trailer from a Bultman Drive business, according to a news release from Tonyia McGirt, public information officer with Sumter Police Department.
Information gathered helped officers identify Tipton and Bobby Lynn Mitchell, 49, both of 2571 Highview St., as suspects. Originally police thought a third person was involved but no longer think that is the case.
Mitchell is being held at Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center after being arrested on unrelated charges in Sumter County.
Mitchell and Tipton each face a charge of grand larceny related to the stolen trailer.
The black enclosed trailer, packed with furniture, was reportedly stolen between 5 p.m. Oct. 15 and 5:30 a.m. Oct. 16 from Ron's Used Cars. It is described as 8 feet by 16 feet with a diamond plate on the front. A black 2006 F-150 truck was seen pulling the trailer.
Anyone with information about Tipton's whereabouts is asked to call the department at (803) 436-2700.
Information can also be given anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. A cash reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by logging onto www.P3tips.com and clicking on the “Submit a New Tip” tab or by downloading the new P3 Tips app for Apple and Android devices.