LINCOLNTON, N.C. -- People in Lincolnton said they are feeling more fear than cheer in the days leading up to Christmas. Five homes on three neighboring streets have been broken into this month, according to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.
Two of those burglaries happened Tuesday on Summerow and Tripple H Roads.
“You try to have something and then people steal it from you," said great-grandfather Harold Richard.
Thieves kicked in the back door to his house Tuesday morning while he was taking his wife to the doctor. They stole more than a dozen Christmas gifts for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren from under his tree, including a 42-inch television. The burglars also took the wedding rings exchanged by he and his wife 54 years ago.
“If they were hungry, they could’ve come to me. I would’ve given them something to eat,” said Richard, who had already replaced some of the stolen gifts. “It ain’t changed me a bit. I ain’t going to let somebody change the way I feel about Christmas because my kids, grand-kids and great grand-kids are my Christmas.”
Bob Conklin and Betty Norris said the burglars stole more than just the Christmas spirit from them. Their home, located one street over from Richard’s, was also broken into early Tuesday morning. Thieves got away with Conklin’s new television, Norris’ purse and, most importantly, the couple’s dog, Baby.
“I don't care about the TV, my purse, or what’s in it. I want my dog back. You can’t replace her,” said Norris.
She added that she also felt robbed of her sense of security. Other people on their street agreed. The neighbors claimed they were so worried about the recent break-ins, they called sheriff’s deputies to report an unknown vehicle on the street Wednesday night - that vehicle belonged to NewsChannel 36.
Medication was taken in both of Tuesday’s burglaries. Lincoln County deputies said they are increasing patrols in the area.
