News Summary
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Jason Wertz, 43, in connection with multiple vehicle thefts. Following a pursuit, Wertz was captured, and authorities are now searching for two accomplices linked to a related theft in Greenville County. Community concern over vehicle thefts has prompted increased law enforcement vigilance and public cooperation to combat this growing issue in the area.
Newberry, SC – Car Theft Suspect Arrested and Search Underway for Accomplices
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect in connection with a series of vehicle thefts and is currently searching for two accomplices linked to a stolen car incident in Greenville County. The situation escalates the ongoing concern over vehicle thefts in the region.
The arrested individual, identified as Jason Wertz, 43 years old, faces two counts of motor vehicle theft and resisting arrest. Authorities noted he was found driving a vehicle that had been reported stolen. Following a chase, Wertz fled into a dense brush area near Belfast but was apprehended with the aid of bloodhounds, specialized tracking dogs, and aviation units.
In a related incident, deputies are investigating the theft of a Land Rover in Greenville County, which was abandoned on Tripod Road off Shrine Club. The stolen vehicle’s discovery prompted a focused search for the two suspects involved, described as two Black males wearing jeans and light-colored T-shirts. As part of the search, law enforcement is concentrating their efforts on areas that include Shrine Club, CR Koon, and Jollystreet, utilizing bloodhounds and helicopters to gain ground in locating the suspects.
Details of Arrest
Wertz was apprehended after being spotted in the stolen vehicle, which led to a pursuit. Authorities tracked him down approximately a mile away from the vehicle’s location. Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster reported that Wertz had been living out of his car on property owned by a Timber Asset Company. At the time of his latest arrest, Wertz was out on bond for a prior vehicle theft charge in Greenwood County.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigations
Community members have expressed concern over the uptick in vehicle thefts in Newberry County, prompting local officials to enhance vigilance and law enforcement efforts. The arrest of Wertz and the search for additional suspects serve as a warning regarding the issues of auto theft that are currently present in the area.
Authorities are encouraging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to aid in the ongoing efforts to combat these incidents. The Sheriff’s Office has emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving cases of vehicle theft and maintaining public safety.
Background on Vehicle Theft in the Region
Vehicle theft remains a pressing issue in many parts of the country, with numerous communities facing challenges related to thefts and the criminal activities surrounding them. This latest series of events highlights the ongoing need for law enforcement to work in collaboration with the community to tackle auto theft issues effectively.
As the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office continues their investigation, more information is expected to be released regarding the search for the two suspects still at large. Wertz is currently held at the Newberry County Detention Center, where he awaits bond. The authorities remain committed to ensuring justice as they work to resolve these incidents and restore safety to the area.
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Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: Newberry County Deputies Searching for 2 Suspects Accused of Auto Theft
- WACH: Deputies Search for Suspects in Car Theft
- WISTV: Newberry County Deputies Arrest Man Accused of Stealing Vehicles
- Wikipedia: Vehicle Theft
- Google Search: Vehicle Theft
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
