Statesville Man Charged with Stealing Vehicle

Authorities recovered a $20,000 stolen truck and trailer during a traffic stop.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:48am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 40-year-old Statesville man was arrested and charged with multiple felonies after an Iredell County deputy conducted a traffic stop and discovered the vehicle and trailer he was driving were reported stolen and had altered vehicle identification numbers.

Why it matters

Vehicle theft is a persistent problem in Iredell County, with hundreds of incidents reported each year. This case highlights the work law enforcement does to recover stolen property and hold repeat offenders accountable.

The details

During the traffic stop, Deputy Lee found the vehicle and trailer were displaying fictitious license plates. Further investigation revealed the VIN had been altered, but deputies were able to identify the correct VIN and confirm the truck had been reported stolen in August 2025.

  • The traffic stop occurred on March 29, 2026.
  • The vehicle was reported stolen in August 2025.

The players

Jonathan Ray Lowman

A 40-year-old Statesville resident who was arrested and charged with multiple felonies related to the stolen vehicle.

Deputy Lee

The Iredell County deputy who conducted the traffic stop and discovered the stolen vehicle.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Vehicle theft is an ongoing issue we take very seriously in Iredell County. Our deputies work hard to recover stolen property and hold offenders accountable.”

— Sheriff Darren Campbell, Iredell County Sheriff

What’s next

Lowman will appear in court for his first hearing, where a judge will determine if he will be granted bail.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the persistence of vehicle theft in Iredell County and the important role law enforcement plays in recovering stolen property and prosecuting repeat offenders to help deter future crimes.