COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) – One man is facing charges and another person is expected to be arrested in connection to the theft of one of the new license plate readers in Colleton County.
A release from the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office states that Timothy McWilliams, 56, is charged with felony grand larceny. He was arrested Friday.
Deputies say they successfully recovered the stolen “Flock Safety” license plate reader camera that was originally stolen last week Tuesday.
The camera is a part of a newly launched “Colleton County Safe” initiative. The technology is expected to be used as a “critical tool for law enforcement” by helping reduce crime, solve cases, recover stolen cars and even locate missing or endangered people.
The charges against McWilliams stem from an incident in which witnesses saw two men wearing traffic safety vests who were removing the camera.
“These cameras are legally installed on private property throughout Colleton County under official agreements. Tampering with or stealing them is a serious offense, and offenders will be held accountable, including facing criminal charges and potential restitution,” the release states.
“These cameras are in place to protect our community, they help us solve violent crimes such as homicides and shootings and assist in finding missing persons. We will not tolerate interference with this vital public safety resource,” Colleton County Sheriff Buddy Hill said.
Deputies say efforts remain underway to identify and charge the remaining suspect.
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