Memphis police said they apprehended nine suspects during an operation to prevent copper theft.
According to police, in November, the MPD Pawn, Scrap, and Seizure Unit undertook a two-week operation known as ‘Operation Junkyard Dog’ to stop the flow of stolen copper and metal being sold to scrap yards and recyclers.
Officers stated that the thieves frequently target key infrastructure, resulting in costly damage and dangerous service disruptions for the community.
During the operation, officers found more than $10,000 in stolen copper tubing and arrested nine people, including:
- Kaila Prince, 25: Felony drug warrant
- Larry Malon, 49: Misdemeanor drug warrant
- Rashad Glover, 44: Warrant for burglary and charged with additional burglary
- Ashton Roby, 20: Possession of a controlled substance with intent to manufacture/deliver/sell (marijuana)
- Latrice Gray, 38: Felony drug warrant
- Terrance Wilson, 41: Burglary warrant
- James Lyons, 57: Burglary warrant
- Randy Jackson, 31: Warrant for Theft of Property $1,000–$2,500
- Jesse Perez, 36: Aggravated criminal trespass, burglary, theft of property $10,000–$60,000, vandalism $10,000–$60,00
“By stopping the illegal sale of stolen metal and copper, we’re helping protect Memphis neighborhoods, local businesses, and the essential services that keep our city running,” said Memphis Police.
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