Two Charged in Multi-County Storage Unit Burglaries

The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of storage unit burglaries spanning north Alabama and southern Middle Tennessee.

Authorities were first notified January 19, 2026, that multiple units had been burglarized at I-Self Storage on Florence Boulevard. During the investigation, suspects were identified as Steven James Pickering, 39, of Killen, and Robert Dewayne Flippo, 57, of Florence.

Investigators later determined additional storage units had been burglarized in the Florence and Lawrenceburg areas. Agencies assisting in the investigation include the Florence Police Department, Lawrenceburg Police Department, and Loretto Police Department.

Stolen property reportedly includes 13 firearms, a Vortex scope and binoculars, RTIC coolers, electronics, Pokémon cards, antique dolls, and other miscellaneous items.

Both suspects are charged with 13 counts of second-degree theft of property, one count of third-degree theft of property, two counts of fourth-degree theft of property, and four counts of third-degree burglary. They are being held in the Lauderdale County Detention Center on $257,000 bond. Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.

Anyone with information about the case or who believes they may be a victim of storage unit theft is asked to contact Investigator Macy Hughes at 256-760-5762.