Orange County man charged with multiple burglaries and business fires over the weekend, officials say

HILLSBOROUGH, NC (WNCN) – A man is facing multiple charges following multiple burglaries and a business fire over the weekend in Orange County, officials said.

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, officers arrested 49-year-old James Pickens Jr. on Saturday night in connection with a series of burglaries on Boogaboo Trail and River Run Road.

The Hillsborough man was originally charged with the following:

• Aggravated breaking and entering (two counts)
• Aggravated theft after burglary (two counts)
• Armed against the terror of the people
• Damage to property
• Burglary
• Resistance against an official

Pickens posted bail and left jail Monday night, but the sheriff’s office said investigators found evidence linking the suspect to a fire that broke out Saturday night at the old Major Business Systems building on Coleman Loop Road, officials said.

The fire affected several businesses within the complex, the sheriff’s office said.

On Tuesday, investigators arrested Pickens in connection with the fire on the following charges:

• Burglary
• Theft after burglary
• The fire of a commercial building

Following the latest arrest, Pickens will be held without bail for up to 48 hours, according to the sheriff’s office. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday at 2 p.m.