Across the area

A 'most wanted' man is arrested, charged

Laurens County authorities arrested one of the Richmond County sheriff's "most wanted" fugitives on Thursday.

Otis Keith Pearce, 42, of Keysville, Ga., faces several charges, including burglary and escape, connected to a series of break-ins in the Burke and Richmond County areas, according to Lt. Tony Walden.

Man convicted in fire that killed two in June

A man charged with setting a house fire that killed two people on June 9 has been found guilty on all counts by a Richmond County jury.

Theodore Fred Sharpe was convicted Wednesday of two counts each of malice and felony murder in the deaths of Stillson Lawrence, 59, and Herman Cadle, 51, who police said were inside the house on Cleveland Street when Mr. Sharpe set fire to the bedroom. Celisa Heard Hamilton, who also is accused in the case, is awaiting trial.

Residents can apply for help with heating

The CSRA Economic Opportunity Authority will begin taking applications Monday from people 65 and older for its Energy Assistance Program, which helps disadvantaged residents with their heating bills.

Richmond and Columbia county residents may apply between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the May Park Center, 644 Fourth St.; and the Bernie Ward Center, 1941 Lumpkin Road through Nov. 7.

Applications also will be accepted at Carrie J. Mays Center, 1014 11th Ave. through Nov. 14.

The general public can apply, funds allowing, starting Dec. 1. For information, call (866) 722-4346.

-- From staff reports