32-year-old James Robbins of Enterprise and 41-year-old Patrick Smith of Meridian are wanted in connection with a rash of thefts in four Mississippi counties.

Authorities say they believe Robbins and Smith are responsible for burglaries that began in mid-July in Lauderdale, Clarke, Newton and Neshoba counties.

"It doesn't appear that they're targeting one area at this time," said Lauderdale County investigator Maj. Casey McElhenney of the Lauderdale County Sheriff's Department.

McElhenney says it appears the culprits are just taking things that appear to be easy to steal.

'From what we're getting, the reports are coming in that they can see it from the road," said McElhenney. "It's parked out by the road. The shed's facing the road where they can see. It's an opportunity and they get it."

The most recent theft happened this week in the late night hours in the northeastern part of Lauderdale County. In that case, a John Deere tractor, four-wheeler, a zero turn mower and a trailer were all stolen from the residence. Authorities say they think the suspects are trying to sell the items.

"I believe they are related, because they are stealing similar items, the same time frame. I believe they are related," said McElhenney.

Warrants have now been issued for the arrests of 41-year-old Patrick Smith of Meridian and 32-year-old James Robbins of Enterprise. Investigators say it's possible that one or even more people could be involved.

"It's whatever they can ride and see. So, we're asking everybody to remember, 'out of sight, out of mind'. Whatever they can lock up, so thieves can't see it, then they won't know that they can take it," McElhenney said.

As investigators continue to search for the suspects, they are asking anyone who has experienced this type of theft in recent weeks to please contact them immediately.

Within the last week, four of the stolen 4-wheelers have been found. One was in Hattiesburg.

Anyone with more information on the burglaries is asked to call Crimestoppers at (601) 485-1860.

Lauderdale County S.O. 601-482-9806
Clarke County S.O. 601-776-5252
Newton County S. O. 601-635-4401
Neshoba County S.O. 601-656-1414