Man Charged for Stealing from Dead Body in McDowell County

McDowell County -- June 14, 2024: On April 22nd, the McDowell County Sheriff's Office initiated an investigation

in response to the discovery of a deceased male, 22-year-old DeAndre "Desmond" Clark of Asheville, hidden behind an abandoned business on Batcave Rd in the Old Fort community. 

The physical evidence, video footage, and other information discovered at the scene all support the theory that Clark's death was caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Scotty Styles was charged with the theft of Clark's wallet, handgun, credit cards, and vehicle after discovering the corpse. The larceny that transpired subsequent to the incident is currently being investigated by MCSO detectives.

The following information is from the report McDowell County Sheriff's Office June 13, 2024:

"The charges against Scotty Styles were the result of him discovering the body and stealing various items, including Clark’s wallet, handgun, credit cards and vehicle. MCSO detectives are actively investigating the larceny that occurred afterward."

Editor's Note:* A criminal charge is an accusation, by law, a person accused of a crime is innocent until proven in a court of law.

WNCTimes

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