Jewelry seized in investigation

WINCHESTER -- Numerous pieces of jewelry were seized Tuesday from a Winchester home as part of an investigation by city and Frederick County authorities into recent burglaries.

The county Sheriff's Office searched 1405 Pleasant Valley Road, identified in an affidavit for a search warrant as the home of Richard Lee Whitacre Jr.

Several jewelry boxes along with numerous gold, silver and wood jewelry pieces were removed from the home, according to a search inventory list filed with the warrant.

In addition, a silverware set, serving tray, two wallets and other valuable items were taken from the home. Drug paraphernalia also was found, including used syringes, an oxycodone bottle with two pills inside, and a smoking device.

Frederick County Sheriff's Maj. Robert Eckman said Wednesday that the investigation is ongoing, and that Whitacre has not been charged.