Moore County Connect Newsletter Issue #096 1/8/24

Moore County Major Bank Fraud Arrest / Morganton Road To Remain Open / High-Speed Chase Ends in Arrest in Carthage / Leith Automotive New Ownership

January 08, 2024

Moore News More Often

In Today’s Issue…

🌤 Moore County NC Weather

❔ Carolina Curiosity Trivia

📰 Miami Man Arrested in Moore County for Major Bank Fraud

📰 Morganton Road To Remain Open

📰 High-Speed Chase Ends in Arrest behind Pete’s Restaurant in Carthage

📰 Leith Automotive Continues Legacy Under New Ownership by Holman

📢 Business Spotlight: Fairway Mortgage

🤝 Local business Partners

📅 Local Events

🎉 Celebrate! Today is…

Question: What was the name of the shipwreck found off Cape Hatteras in 2021?  

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

Welcome to Our Local News Sponsor, Mike Lenzini of Fairway Mortgage

Be sure to read the Business Spotlight on Fairway Mortgage below.

Miami Man Arrested in Moore County for Major Bank Fraud

Sheriff Ronnie Fields recently announced a significant development in a Moore County fraud investigation, leading to the arrest. On January 4th, 2024, the Moore County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to a case of bank fraud in the Carthage area, where a victim reported thousands of dollars fraudulently withdrawn from their bank account. Following a swift investigation, detectives identified 25-year-old Jesse Jose Reyes from Miami Gardens, Florida, as the primary suspect.

Reyes faces multiple charges including identity theft and financial fraud. Detained under a $112,500 bond, Reyes is also wanted in Florida for related crimes. Source: Moore County Sheriff’s Office.

5 Essential Tips to Protect Yourself from Bank Fraud

In an era where digital transactions are increasingly common, the risk of bank fraud has escalated. It's crucial for individuals to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their financial information. Here are five key tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of bank fraud:

  1. Secure Personal Information: Never share your PIN, password, or bank details over unsolicited calls, emails, or texts.

  2. Beware of Phishing Scams: Be cautious of unexpected requests for personal details or suspicious links in emails and messages.

  3. Regularly Check Bank Statements: Frequently monitor your transactions for any unauthorized activity.

  4. Use Strong Passwords: Choose unique, complex passwords for online banking and change them periodically.

  5. Update Regularly: Keep your devices and banking apps up-to-date with the latest security software.

Stay vigilant and protect your financial information to prevent bank fraud.

Morganton Road To Remain Open

Despite earlier signs suggesting otherwise, Morganton Road near South Henley Street in Southern Pines will stay open next week as construction begins on the entrance to the new Target shopping area. The NCDOT rectified the misinformation from portable message boards. The road, including the intersection with U.S. 15-501, will be accessible. Motorists are urged to be cautious and slow down in the construction area.

High-Speed Chase Ends in Arrest behind Pete’s Restaurant in Carthage

Late Thursday afternoon, January 4th, in a dramatic pursuit, Scott Murray Burnett, a 48-year-old man, was apprehended by officials in Lee County after instigating a high-speed chase. The incident began when Narcotics Agents attempted to pull Burnett over on Willett Road near Greenwood Road. Instead of complying, Burnett accelerated his vehicle, leading the deputies on a chase that spanned both Lee and Moore counties. The chase reached its climax when Burnett hastily parked his vehicle at Pete's Restaurant in Carthage and attempted to flee on foot. However, his escape was short-lived as he was quickly captured behind the restaurant.

Burnett faces numerous charges, including felony flee to elude arrest and reckless driving, with additional warrants in Forsyth and Guilford counties. Burnett is now held at the Lee County Jail without bond. See full story abc11.com.

Leith Automotive Continues Legacy Under New Ownership by Holman

Leith Automotive Group, a key automotive business with over 30 dealerships in the Raleigh and Pinehurst area, has been acquired by Holman, a national auto group. This acquisition brings together two family-owned businesses, focusing on the growth of employees and customer satisfaction. The Leith brand will continue to operate under its name, ensuring a smooth transition and preserving the legacy built over 56 years. This move signals a significant expansion for Holman in the mid-Atlantic and southeast regions of the U.S. See full story at NewsBreak.com.

Click the logos to learn more about our Business Partners.

Spotlight on: Fairway Mortgage

Fairway Mortgage: A Story of Commitment to Excellence and Community

At the center of Moore County's vibrant community, Fairway Mortgage, under the leadership of Mike Lenzini, stands out as a prominent force in the field of residential financing. As it celebrates its 22nd year of operation, Fairway Mortgage distinguishes itself as more than a mere business; it is a foundational element of the community, renowned for its trustworthiness, expertise, and a deep-seated commitment to making a meaningful impact.

Founded in 2002 by a visionary trio – Mike Teppen, Bob Heard, and Mike Lenzini – Fairway Mortgage, initially known as Milestone Mortgage, was built on a bedrock of customer satisfaction. The founders' dedication to fairness, honesty, and creating a welcoming business environment has been the driving force behind the company's long-standing reputation as a knowledgeable and ethical loan originator.

A Unique Approach to Residential Financing

What truly sets Fairway Mortgage apart is its unique approach to residential financing. With years of experience and robust referral relationships with realtors, attorneys, financial planners, and accountants, the team at Fairway Mortgage excels in providing personalized financing solutions.

And when they say a “team”, they really mean it. Fairway Mortgage has a large team of professionals working behind the scenes working to get things done as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Mike Lenzini, Branch Manager
Fairway Mortgage Team
Beyond Financing: Serving the Community

Fairway Mortgage's impact extends beyond financial services; their involvement in community initiatives speaks volumes about their ethos. Their American Warrior Initiative involved providing service dogs to veterans, symbolizing the deep bond between humans and animals and the crucial role of service animals in enhancing veterans' lives.

Another significant event in 2023 was their participation in the Alzheimer's Walk. This event, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer's research, saw the Fairway Mortgage team walking alongside caregivers, families, and advocates.

Fairway Mortgage Team, Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Looking Ahead

As Fairway Mortgage continues to grow and serve the Moore County area, their journey is a reminder that a business can be both a leader in its field and a pillar of the community.

For those interested in residential financing or learning more about Fairway Mortgage's community efforts, contact Mike Lenzini at 847-815-6694 or via email at [email protected].

Would you like to have your Moore County business featured here in our Local Business Spotlight? We would love to share your business with the rest of Moore County. You can apply for your own business or nominate a business!

👇 Select an Option:

 

  • January 9

    • Meet and Greet New Aberdeen Police Chief Brian Chavis 4-6pm at Aberdeen Police Dept. 804 N. Sandhills Blvd in Aberdeen.

  • January 12

  • January 18

    • Moore County Board of Commissioners Special Meeting - Moore Count Land Use Update 5:30pm Pinecrest High School Auditorium

  • January 20

    • Positive Parenting Seminar 10:30am-12noon Southern Pines Public Library Free Registration

  • January 27

    • Furry Fun Run 10am-12noon Southern Pines Whitehall Reservoir Park. You must register your pets. F.r information call 910-692-7376.

    • Small Business Fair (Handmade Local Items) 10am-4pm 405 McReynolds St. Carthage

  • February 9

    • 8th Annual Caring Hearts for Canines Furever Yours Valentine’s Day Gala, Country Club of North Carolina, Pinehurst. Tickets

  • February 10

    • 2024 Soup(er) Bowl Showdown 2-4pm Downtown Aberdeen

ONGOING…

  • First Sunday of the Month

  • Monday Nights

    • Southern Soul Line Dancing; Beginner 6pm; Intermediate 7:15pm; $10pp at The Roast Office (95 Cherokee Rd. Pinehurst

  • First Saturday of the Month 

Answer: The Sparrow-Hawk