Serial Burglar Linked to Multiple Local Restaurant Thefts Arrested by Charleston Police Department
A 35-year-old North Charleston man, labeled a “serial burglar” by local law enforcement, has been arrested by the Charleston Police Department (CPD), due to his alleged involvement in a series of burglaries at two local restaurants. The arrest of Charlton Dwayne Smith was confirmed by the Charleston Police Department on Tuesday.
Charges and Arrest
Smith was charged with two counts of second-degree burglary, safecracking and two counts of possessing tools used for committing a crime, according to law enforcement. His arrest came on June 21, following his alleged involvement in two separate burglaries that occurred from June 7 through June 12 at Turbo Cone, a restaurant on Saint Andrews Boulevard, and Palmira Barbecue on Ashley River Road.
The suspect reportedly broke into the restaurants after-hours, stole money, and then fled the scene each time. The multiple charges against Smith underline the seemingly calculated series of crimes that led to his arrest.
Currently, Smith is being held at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center. Though his crimes have been focused within the Charleston area, law enforcement believe Smith may have been involved in additional burglaries outside their jurisdiction. They have warned that additional charges against him are likely.
A History of Burglary Convictions
Smith’s arrest highlights a criminal history that stretches back a number of years. His first burglary conviction came in 2012. His criminal activities did not cease after that, leading to a third-degree burglary conviction in 2018 and a second-degree burglary conviction in 2022.
At the time of his latest arrest, Smith was already under the supervision of the South Carolina Probation Pardon and Parole. His sustained criminal activities and repeated convictions point to a pattern of behavior that law enforcement is now hoping to curb with his latest arrest.
The Ongoing Investigation
The Charleston Police Department is continuing their investigation into Smith’s activities and potential involvement in further burglaries. His arrest presents an opportunity for the police to solidify the links between Smith and the burglaries he is suspected of carrying out, hopefully bringing some closure to the establishments he has allegedly targeted.
In the coming days, it is expected that the CPD will release more details about their investigation, and any further connections between Smith and additional burglaries. The situational developments also raise concerns about the necessary measures required to curtail such criminal activities in the future and to safeguard local businesses from being victim to such crimes.
