DURHAM, N.C. (WPTF) – More arrests in connection with a recent rash of vehicle break-ins in Durham and Research Triangle Park and other areas.
Twice in April, 18-year-old Lester Mayo was booked into the Durham County Detention Center in connection with similar crimes, including the charges previously released (below). On both occasions, he met the terms of release set by the court and was released from custody.
Since then, and over the course of the last three weeks, Mayo was suspected of several additional break-ins in Durham County and Wake County, as well as the cities of Durham and Raleigh, and the Towns of Cary and Morrisville.
On Thursday (May 7) members of the Durham County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit, SAC/Narc, and Strike Team, working with the Cary and Raleigh Police Departments, located and arrested Mayo in the Town of Cary. Mayo was taken to the Wake County Detention Center, where he remains today without bond.
At the time of his arrest, Mayo was in the company of several other individuals, including juveniles. As part of the ongoing investigation, we expect there to be additional arrests and juvenile petitions filed in connection with these incidents.
The Durham County Sheriff’s Office says a marked increase in this type of crime since the beginning of 2026, especially in and around Research Triangle Park and many may be connected to a single group of people.
“Criminals do not stop at county lines, and neither does our commitment to public safety,” said Durham County Sheriff Clarence F. Birkhead in a press release. “This arrest is a direct result of the seamless collaboration between the Durham County Sheriff’s Office and our law enforcement partners in Cary, Raleigh, and Wake County. By sharing intelligence and resources, we are sending a clear message that those who target our communities will be held accountable, no matter where they attempt to hide.”
Birkhead wants to remind everyone about the following to keep your vehicle and property safe.
- Never Leave Valuables in Plain Sight: Remove bags, laptops, electronics, sunglasses, and loose change. Never leave an unsecured firearm in your vehicle.
- Lock Up Every Time: Always lock doors and close windows, even when parked at home or in a garage.
- Use the Trunk: If you must leave items, secure them in the trunk before you reach your destination to prevent thieves from watching you hide items.
- Choose Parking Wisely: Use well-lit, busy, and visible areas. Avoid parking near shrubbery or in dark, isolated spots.
- Do Not Leave Spare Keys: Never hide spare keys on the vehicle.