OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY
Bentley Convicted of Burglary and Possession of Burglar’s Tools by Cherokee County Jury
District Attorney Summer Summerford announced today that Michael Tajh Bentley was convicted today by a Cherokee County jury of Burglary 3rd degree and Possession of Burglar’s Tools.
On November 11, 2024, deputies were dispatched to an address in reference to a possible burglary in progress. Officers arrived on scene and saw Bentley inside a camper, asleep on the couch. Officers woke Bentley up. When he was asked how he gained entry to the camper, he stated that he used pliers to get the padlock off the door. Bentley later told officers the pliers were inside a bag in the camper. Bentley also told the officers he had removed a camera from a tree that was pointing towards the camper. It was also confirmed that Bentley had an active protection order against him by the homeowner.
The case was presided over by Circuit Judge Andrew Hairston. The case was investigated by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Bentley will remain in jail until his Sentencing Hearing on June 16, 2025.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe on their own property. We recognize that citizens work hard for what they have and they should not have to worry about it being stolen or destroyed by those who try to take the easy way out,” said Summerford.
This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Brady Burns.
