Sex offender linked to string of burglaries | Crime

OZARK, AL (WSFA)  - A man accused of taking more than $100,000 in property is under arrest and charged for a string of burglaries stretching back to September 2011.

Ozark police say they didn't have any leads into who was responsible until February 4, 2012. It was only when an officer saw an automobile parked next to a church that the cases became red hot.

The officer went to investigate why the car was at the church, but as he approached the vehicle, its driver sped off. A short chase ended with the man's arrest.

During the investigation authorities connected 32-year-old Edward McLeod to the string of burglaries. Investigators recovered some $50,000 worth of property but suspect there are more cases they haven't yet connected him to.

Edwards, a registered sex-offender, faces 20 counts of burglary, 20 counts of theft of property and 5 counts of criminal mischief.More charges could be awaiting the man including failure to comply with the sex offender notification act.

Edwards is no stranger to police. He enjoys stealing jewelry and was only released from prison in July 2011 after serving time for similar theft crimes. The known burglaries started less than two months after he was freed.

There may be unreported crimes. Investigators are urging residents to check their belongings, and notify them if they've been a victim. That number is 774-6803.

Police say Edwards typically kicked in doors or slipped through unsecured windows or doors to enter his victims' homes.