Updated December 20, 2018

Five Limestone residents are facing theft and burglary charges following an investigation by the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Mike Blakely announced Wednesday afternoon.

Luis Lopez, 36, is believed to be the leader of the theft ring, and he was charged with first-degree theft, third-degree theft and two counts of third-degree burglary. He is in Limestone County Jail with bail set at $11,500.

Others charged are Jessica Padgett, 25, third-degree theft; Derrick Hicks, 33, third-degree burglary; Stephanie Dutcher, 38, third-degree theft; and Christopher Pylant, 32, third-degree receiving stolen property and possession of a controlled substance. They were all taken to the Limestone jail with bail ranging from $1,500 to $4,000.