On October 18, 2023, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office responded to Allred Street, Franklinville in reference to a larceny of a motor vehicle. Upon arrival, the victim advised a witness had seen a flatbed truck loading the vehicle.
During the investigation, two of the neighbors reported they had approached the flatbed tow truck together. They advised there was also another vehicle present at the time that was driven by John Christopher Sykes. One of the neighbors spoke to Sykes, who advised he had a bill of sale for the vehicle, and that he was having it towed so it could be salvaged. He left immediately after the conversation. They also spoke to the tow driver, who advised that Sykes had shown him a bill of sale for three vehicles at that residence and then towed the vehicle away.
The tow truck driver was contacted for further investigation, and he advised that he was unaware that the bills of sale were fraudulent and advised he would return the vehicle to the residence. Upon his arrival, the passenger in the tow truck corroborated the information but said that he had not seen the bills of sale. No money had changed hands at this time.
Charges were sought and the magistrate granted a warrant for felony larceny of a motor vehicle against John Christopher Sykes.
On November 25, 2023, Sykes was located, arrested and transported to the Randolph County Detention Center where he was served the warrant. He was issued a $5,000 secured bond and a first appearance was set for November 27, 2023, in Randolph County District Court.
Name of Defendant:
John Christopher Sykes
Age: 42
