As reported in the Sept. 29 edition of the Claiborne Progress, video surveillance from two local stores assisted in the identification of two men who used a stolen debit card to make several unlawful purchases.

On that day, it was disclosed that one of the perpetrators, 22-year-old Caleb Zane Cavins, had already been taken into custody by the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office for the criminal act — but authorities had yet to locate the other man involved.

The suspect, 27-year-old Brandon Lee Cavins of Middlesboro, was arrested on Thursday by the Middlesboro Police Department (MPD) and charged with theft by unlawful taking.

According to the recent report, members of the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the Harrogate City Park where a vehicle had been burglarized. Through further investigation, detectives Anthony Veillon and Bobby Morelock learned that a debit card had been stolen and later used at Walmart in New Tazewell, Tenn.

Video surveillance was obtained from the store, which led to the identification of Brandon Lee Cavins.

Furthermore, the investigators learned that the stolen debit card was also used at Boone’s BP in Ewing, Va. Through video surveillance at Boone’s, investigators were able to identify Caleb Zane Cavins, the brother of Brandon Cavins.

The brothers attempted to make several other transactions with the stolen debit card, and tried cashing multiple checks that had also been stolen from the vehicle — but were unsuccessful due to the debit card and checks being reported stolen.

After receiving a tip on the whereabouts of Caleb Cavins, officers were able to locate him and place him under arrest. He was taken to the Claiborne County Jail where he was charged with theft over $500.

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