Two men from Georgia are facing serious charges after law enforcement officials in Union County, North Carolina uncovered a scheme involving the sale of stolen construction equipment, authorities said.

The investigation began in late March when a local man purchased a skid steer via Facebook Marketplace. The sellers, identified as Jahbril Kelley and Nicholas Tucker, arranged to deliver the equipment to the buyer in Union County. Shortly after the delivery, the man discovered the machine had been reported stolen and promptly alerted law enforcement officials.

The Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) launched an in-depth investigation into the transaction. During the probe, officials say Kelley and Tucker attempted to sell another stolen skid steer — this time, unknowingly to undercover UCSO detectives posing as buyers.

"When the men returned to Union County to deliver the equipment, they were taken into custody," according to the sheriff’s office.

Authorities reported that a total of approximately $80,000 worth of stolen construction machinery was recovered through the investigation.

Kelley and Tucker were both booked into the Union County Detention Center. They are facing multiple felony charges, including felony obtaining property by false pretenses and felony conspiracy.

Nicholas Tucker was released after posting a secured bond of $35,000. Meanwhile, Jahbril Kelley remains in custody under a secured bond of $62,500, officials confirmed.

The Union County Sheriff’s Office credits the community’s vigilance and swift reporting in aiding the investigation. They are reminding residents to use caution when purchasing high-value equipment online and to verify serial numbers and titles when possible.

“This is a great example of how cooperative community engagement and proactive policing can stop criminal activity before it spreads further,” a UCSO spokesperson stated.

Authorities say investigations into similar scams remain ongoing and urged anyone with information to come forward.

Originally reported by Arri Woodhouse in Queencitynews.