South American nationals connected to local home break-ins, sheriff says

Union County Sheriff's Office investigators stated on Facebook Friday they connected a break-in earlier this week in Weddington to an ongoing investigation involving a large group of South American nationals who are actively targeting high-value homes across the U.S.

Residents have been on edge.

"The ladies in the neighborhood have a text chat that they stay connected with, and so everybody was very much on it, and everybody was on high alert," said resident Mike Williams.

There have been 10 to 15 similar incidents in the last two years in the Weddington and Marvin areas, the sheriff said.

Police swarm Weddington neighborhood for reported break-in

On Wednesday, three suspects, including Michael Rodriguez, 23, broke into a house in Weddington's Highgate community while the residents were home, investigators said. The perpetrators fled when they realized people were inside. They were later captured.

Residents are ensuring they keep themselves safe as criminals up the ante.

"We've got areas around here that people walk and we're going to be on high alert watching for people that don't look like they belong," Williams said.

"Now, we turn on our alarm system," said resident Bernd Schewzyk. "Normally, we only turn it on, to be honest with you, whenever we go away for a couple of days a week."

Rodriguez faces several charges including, first-degree burglary, larceny, and fleeing to elude arrest. He remained in custody Friday under a $40,000 secured bond and an ICE detainer.