Crime & Safety

Walmart Syringes Differ in Type

Investigators are not ruling out the possibility of copycats or false reports of needles found in the store's merchandise.

As the probe into a total of 15 syringes found in the merchandise of Cartersville's Walmart continues, investigators say later reports could be copycat crimes, Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Investigator Russell Ballard told WSB-TV the latest needles found aren't the same type as the first round that pricked two people. While they aren't discounting the possibility some needles reportedly found in clothing could be copycats, investigators say they are taking all the reported syringe finds seriously to determine if each is legitimate.

Meanwhile, is bringing in extra security personnel and searching clothing as it continues to assist law enforcement in reviewing surveillance footage, according to WSB-TV.

Find out what's happening in Cartersvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The syringe scare has been ongoing since late November, but so far investigators have made no arrests and have few clues.

Authorities ask the public to help by dialing in tips.

Find out what's happening in Cartersvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Call the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at 770-382-5050, extensions 6029 or 6030, with any information on any of the syringe incidents or on those responsible for hiding them or falsely reporting them.

Alternately, tipsters can anonymously provide the same information by calling the Cartersville-Bartow County Crime Stoppers tip line at 770-606-TIPS (8477). Rewards are available for information that leads to an arrest in the case.

Here's a recap of Cartersville Patch headlines related to the developing story:


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.