EVERGREEN — An Evergreen man has been arrested on multiple timber‑theft charges following a North Carolina Forest Service investigation into a landowner complaint filed earlier this month.
Lennon Colt Hinson, 42, of Evergreen, was taken into custody Friday, April 10, and charged with one felony count of larceny of timber and five misdemeanor counts related to wood load tickets, according to the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Hinson is the owner of Evergreen Logging.
Forest Service law‑enforcement officers, assisted by the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, made the arrest after a private landowner reported suspected timber theft on April 2.
Officials also confirmed that additional timber‑larceny charges are pending against Hinson in Robeson County, where a separate investigation is underway.
State Mandate to Investigate Timber Theft
The N.C. Forest Service became legally responsible for investigating and enforcing timber‑theft laws in December 2021, following a legislative mandate aimed at strengthening protections for landowners and forest resources.
State officials say the case underscores the agency’s role in safeguarding North Carolina’s timber industry — a major economic driver in rural counties.
“This case highlights the responsibility of the N.C. Forest Service to protect, manage and promote the forest resources for the citizens of North Carolina,” the agency said in its announcement.
Forest Service Encourages Reporting
Landowners who believe they may be victims of timber theft are urged to contact their local N.C. Forest Service county ranger for assistance.
No bond information was immediately released.
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