Justice reminds motorists to use extreme caution

With the start of a new school year Tuesday, August 7, Lincolnton Police Chief Jim Justice reminded motorists to drive with extreme caution, pay close attention to the 25-mph speed limit in school zones, and just slow down in general.

"We especially need to watch for students who are waiting on the bus and for those crossing the road after getting off of the bus," stated the chief. "We also need to keep an eye out for students walking to and from school."

He went on to say, "A lot of children are starting school for the first time - some will be very excited and won't be paying attention when crossing the street. We need to watch for children darting out into the road. Please drive with care - a child's life may be at stake."

Chief Justice likewise urged parents to be patient and wait their turn when dropping off a child at school. "Drivers need to follow the directions of law enforcement officers and others charged with controlling traffic. This will help everything run more smoothly, safely, and efficiently."

In other business, Justice reported the following arrests:

.. Gene Derek Willis, 44, of Lincolnton, charged with DUI and failure to maintain lane.

.. Leroy House, 52, of Lincolnton, charged with disorderly conduct.

In additional items of information, the chief noted that the following incidents occurred recently in the city:

.. Valerie Mickens reported that an unknown person(s) damaged a golf cart and a trampoline at her residence on Gunby Lane. Damages were estimated at $400.

.. Mike McCombs reported than an unknown person(s) removed two tires, valued at a total of $1,500, from his residence on Sunrise Drive.

.. Tanesha Hardman reported that an unknown person(s) stole $20 from her purse at her residence on Dawkins Street.

.. Kathie Davis, director of the Lincoln County Recreation Department, reported that an unknown person(s) damaged the soccer field at the Curry Colvin Recreation Complex by driving a vehicle onto the field and spinning the tires. Damages were undetermined as of press time.

.. Chuck Beggs, co-director of the River of Life ministry at Lincolnton United Methodist Church, reported that an unknown person(s) stole five ladders, valued at a total of $750, from a house the volunteers were painting on E. Lincoln Avenue.

.. Stan Tankersley, owner of HLD Storage on S. Washington Street, reported that an unknown person(s) damaged the front door of one of the storage compartments at the site.

All of the above incidents are still under investigation, according to Chief Justice.

Anyone having any information about these crimes is asked to contact the police department at 706-359- 4121.