Feds: Home burglary operated in NC, SC for years

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Federal law enforcement officials say a home burglary ring that operated for several years in North Carolina and South Carolina has been dismantled. The Charlotte Observer reported Tuesday that the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said at least nine people participated in the ring. Among the items taken were more than 125 guns. The ATF says the ring targeted homes in more than a dozen counties, including Mecklenburg, Union, Cabarrus, Stanly, Anson and Rowan in North Carolina and York and Marlboro in South Carolina. Federal and local authorities have scheduled a news conference Thursday in Albemarle to identify the defendants and outline the charges. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)