Two men and a boy were charged Wednesday with metal theft after watchful neighbors reported the suspicious activity in the Dolphin Court area of Scotland Neck to the Halifax County Sheriff's Office.

From left, Holmes, Dewarren Jackson and Tyrique Jackson.

Lieutenant Bobby Martin said Deputy Brian Knight received a call about three males who were allegedly stealing metal off property they did not own.

The neighbors advise two of the suspects reportedly entered the shed and were removing items.

When Knight and Lieutenant Neil Aycock arrived they discovered the bed of the pickup was completely full of scrap metal.

The property was returned to the owners.

Detective Rich Somogyi lodged the following charges:

Dewarren Jackson, 22, of Scotland Neck, larceny and possession of stolen goods. He has a January 11 court date and was jailed on $1,500 bond.

Tyrique Jackson, 19, and Demonta Holmes, 16, both of Scotland Neck, breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering and possession of stolen goods. Holmes and Tyrique Jackson received $5,000 bonds and have January 11 court dates.

Martin said the observant neighbors were crucial in making the arrests at the scene. “Due to the neighbors that were keeping a watchful eye on the property, the officers were able to catch the men and return all the property. With the time of year it is there are always individuals trying to make some easy score.”