Two men charged with stealing tractor in Clinton

Jul 08, 2023

Two men have been charged for allegedly stealing the tractor that garnered a lot of attention on social media.

Last week, the Sampson County Sheriff's Office asked for the public's help to find the person(s) who stole a small tractor.

Sheriff Jimmy Thorton posted on Facebook asking for the public's help. He said the small tractor was stolen from the area of Twin Oaks Lane.

Photos from the security footage were posted on the Sheriff's Facebook page, with the aim of enlisting the public's assistance in identifying the tractor and suspects.

A citizen recognized the tractor and notified investigators of the possible owner(s). This information led investigators to interview two suspects.

Investigators were able to establish enough probable cause to obtain arrest warrants for both suspects and take them into custody.

Bradley Watts, 41, of Clinton, was taken into custody. Watts now faces charges of felony larceny and possession of stolen property. He was given a $15,000 bond.

Johnny Lucas III, 31, of Clinton, was also charged in connection to the incident. Lucas faces charges of felony larceny and possession of stolen property. His bond was set at $5,000.