BENNETTSVILLE — Recent theft investigations in Marlboro County have been solved following the arrest of Tristan Adams on Aug. 21, 2026, according to the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators have connected Adams to several reported thefts in the Bennettsville area, including a dirt bike reported stolen June 15 from Roller Road; commercial-grade tools reported stolen July 10 from Hardee Lumber & Barn; a Bosch transit and Stihl top saw reported stolen July 23 from a work trailer on Stoneaway Road; and coins and jewelry reported stolen Aug. 7 from a storage building on Zion Road.
Adams was initially charged with two counts of grand larceny and two counts of trespassing in connection with thefts at a business along the 15/401 Bypass in the Bennettsville area. According to the sheriff’s office, investigators determined that Adams removed and carried away several commercial-grade tools from the business, and the majority of the stolen property has since been recovered by law enforcement and returned to the rightful owner.
On Aug. 12, investigators attempted to apprehend Adams at Williams Motel, but authorities said he fled from investigators at the scene.
During the investigation, investigators located coins and jewelry in Adams’ possession that were reported stolen from a Zion Road residence during a July break-in.
Once Adams was in custody, investigators discovered a handgun concealed in his pocket. Adams was then transported to the Marlboro County Detention Center without incident.
As a result of the ongoing investigation, Adams is facing additional charges of possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain crimes, two counts of receiving stolen goods and larceny.
Chief Deputy Larry Turner, who handled the case, said “We received numerous complaints involving Adams, but it seemed like we were always one step behind. Thanks to citizens looking out for one another, we finally got the break we needed. Our investigators stayed on it, followed every lead and continued working on the case. Their efforts are still ongoing, and the information developed during this investigation has already helped investigators recover additional property connected to cases being handled by other agencies. This is a great example of what can happen when our community stays alert, shares information and works together with law enforcement.”
As the investigation is ongoing, authorities said anyone who purchased tools or other property from Adams without knowing the items were stolen should contact the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office so the property can be returned to its rightful owner.
“This is your opportunity to do the right thing and contact us so we can return the property to its rightful owner without unnecessary questions. We understand that you may not have known the property was stolen. However, if you knowingly purchased or possessed stolen property and our investigation establishes that you were aware the items were stolen, you will face criminal charges,” warned the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office also thanked the investigation division of the Bennettsville Police Department who assisted the MCSO with information regarding the whereabouts of Adams in downtown Bennettsville.
Anyone with information or property connected to the case is asked to contact the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office or speak with an investigator. The MCSO Tip Line is 843-897-4818, and the office number is 843-479-5605.