Midlands Burglary Bust: Two Men Arrested in Sumter County Raid!

Britton Road, Sumter County, SC, USA - The hustle and bustle of everyday life in Sumter County took a troubling turn recently, as two men found themselves in hot water after a burglary incident. On July 16, deputies from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office received a call that led them to a business on Britton Road, where they discovered Antwine Deangelo McFadden and Guy Douglas Owens Jr. hiding. Both men were arrested without incident and now face charges of burglary. They are currently being held at the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center, waiting for a bond hearing. As the investigation continues, local law enforcement is urging anyone with information to reach out at 603-436-2000 or submit tips anonymously via CrimeStoppers.

This recent event comes amid a notable rise in the crime rate in Sumter County, as reported by The Villages Law. The first half of 2025 saw an alarming 25.3% increase in overall crime, primarily driven by nonviolent offenses. Specifically, burglaries surged to 133 incidents, marking an increase of 41 cases compared to the previous year. Such rising statistics point to an evident trend that’s hard to ignore.

Understanding Crime Trends

What’s contributing to this uptick? Law enforcement officials suspect that a significant chunk of the burglaries is linked to construction sites in The Villages, where reported thefts of televisions and appliances occur almost nightly. In fact, the frequency of stolen goods from these locations has added a new layer of complexity to the ongoing crime wave. Burglary numbers are not just a statistic—they represent a growing concern for property owners and families throughout the area.

The recent unrest reflects broader trends in the U.S., where a burglary happens every 25.7 seconds, according to Get Safe and Sound. With urban areas often experiencing higher crime rates, suburban communities like Sumter are increasingly becoming targets for these covert operations. The data shows that residential properties account for 57% of all burglary cases, underscoring the threat to local families.

Immediate Impacts on Local Residents

For those living in the area, it’s worth noting the various tactics employed by burglars. The common entry points often include front doors and first-floor windows, making it critical for homeowners to be proactive in securing their properties. The typical burglary lasts just 8-12 minutes, and the entry phase often takes under a minute. It’s a sobering thought that most incidents occur during daylight hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when families are likely to be away.

The statistics are a call to action for Sumter County residents, who are encouraged to bolster their security measures. Properties equipped with modern security systems can drastically reduce burglary risks, with homes displaying security system signage experiencing 300% fewer break-in attempts. As we reflect on the recent events surrounding McFadden and Owens, one can’t help but recognize that the safety of our homes ultimately hinges on our collective vigilance.

In conclusion, while the arrest of these two men may bring a momentary sigh of relief, the broader picture of crime in Sumter County remains a pressing issue. With the understanding of rising burglary trends based on hard data, it’s clear that staying informed and investing in security could be the safest way forward for families. Remember, a watchful eye and preventive measures can go a long way in ensuring the safety of our community.