STONEY FORK, Ky. — A Pineville man and woman were arrested for burglary and criminal trespassing on Wednesday morning, according to the Bell County Sheriff’s Department (BCSD).

The BCSD report states that deputies apprehended two suspects on the property of E&E Hardwoods — located on Ky. Highway 221 — in the early morning hours of Wednesday.

Vernon B. “Jack” Lawson, 37, of Pineville was arrested and charged with second degree burglary, second degree criminal trespassing, and possession of burglary tools.

Patricia Miller, 22, of Pineville was also arrested and charged with second degree burglary, and second degree criminal trespassing.

Lawson and Miller are both from the Bradfordtown community, which lies outside of Pineville on Ky. Highway 221.

Bell County Sheriff Bruce Bennett said that the suspects activated an alarm at the premises and were discovered by deputies a short time thereafter.

According to the report, Deputy Shane Stewart arrived on scene and observed Lawson loading an electric welder — along with various other items — into a truck.

Bennett said that Lawson broke into the premises by detaching boards off the side of the building — where he was then able to enter the facility and open the door.

Deputy Stewart is currently heading up the criminal investigation. Deputy Carl Frith and Sheriff Bruce Bennett also assisted with the scene.

An arrest is an accusation only. Individuals arrested are considered to be innocent, unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Adam Young is a Staff Writer for the Middlesboro Daily News. He can be contacted by e-mail at ayoung@middlesborodailynews.com.