Off Duty Florence Officer Follows Alleged Burglar On Foot Until Patrol Arrives

FLORENCE– Florence Police Officer Matt Hayes took

Earnest Scott Lykins

his oath seriously on Thursday night. Hayes was off duty at a local Wal-Mart when he spotted Earnest Scott Lykins, 45, of Florence inside the store.

Lykins was a suspect in a number of burglaries in Florence. Hayes contacted police dispatch and followed Lykins on foot

Matt Hayes

until patrol officers arrived.

During their contact with Lykins he found to be in possession of multiple stolen items. Following his conversation with investigators Lykins was arrested and charged with Burglary and Theft charges.

He is currently being held in the LCDC on $4,000.00 bond.