Second suspect arrested in car break-ins at churches

A second suspect has been arrested in in connection with a rash of car break-ins at two Darlington-area churches Sunday, according to a Darlington County Sheriff’s Office press release.

Reginald Bernard Brown, 20, 330 Bell Spt. A, Hartsville, was arrested late Wednesday afternoon and faces about 20 charges in connection with the case, the release said.

Clayton DaQon Hall, 18, of 1209 Knollwood Drive, Hartsville, was arrested Tuesday morning and is charged with 11 counts of breaking into motor vehicles and about 20 larcenies, Darlington County Sheriff’s Lt. Robin Bryant said. Hall was released from jail on a $60,000 bond.

Deputies called to Swift Creek Baptist Church on North Center Road on Sunday discovered that at least seven cars had been broken into, according to the release. They noticed that items such as purses had been either stolen or searched. Cell phones, cash and other electronic items also were stolen.

Later that day, deputies were called to nearby Indian Branch United Methodist Church at 2100 Indian Branch Road, Darlington.  At least four cars there had been broken into, and similar items were taken.

The total estimated loss and damage as a result of the crimes is nearly $4,700. Some of the stolen items have been recovered.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the sheriff’s office at (843) 398-4501; Darlington County E-911 dispatch at (843) 398-4920; or Crime Stoppers of the Pee Dee at (888) CRIME SC (274-6372). Callers need not reveal their identities.