Florence, South Carolina — Two suspects have been arrested following a series of church and vehicle break-ins across Florence County, prompting an ongoing investigation by local deputies.
According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, investigators arrested Frank Rickie Cooper Jr. and Carlos Charles Burgess in connection with multiple burglaries reported between Feb. 19 and early March 2026.
Authorities allege Cooper committed several vehicle break-ins between Feb. 19 and Feb. 26 along 5th Street, Sundance Street and Old Mars Bluff Road. Investigators also allege Cooper entered multiple vehicles and churches between Feb. 19 and March 5 along Old Mars Bluff, Sundance, Gaillard, New, Palmetto, 5th and North Cromwell streets, as well as North Marigold Drive.
Cooper is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center on a $60,000 surety bond, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies said he also had outstanding warrants from other jurisdictions and a Family Court bench warrant at the time of his arrest.
Investigators also arrested Carlos Charles Burgess, 37, on March 10. Authorities allege Burgess broke into a vehicle on North Cromwell Street on Jan. 30, stealing approximately $5,000 in cash. Deputies further allege that between Feb. 28 and March 2, Burgess entered a church on North Cromwell Street and stole about $700.
Burgess has been charged with two counts of second-degree burglary and larceny/breaking into motor vehicles and is being held on a $19,000 surety bond, according to the sheriff’s office.
Investigators said additional charges related to other vehicle break-ins remain possible as the case continues.
The incidents occurred in residential areas and near several churches, locations that many students and young workers frequently pass while commuting through Florence.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about the burglaries to contact the Florence County Sheriff’s Office.
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