Multiple arrests made in string of copper thefts across the Coast

The alleged theft of copper wires at South Mississippi AT&T properties leads to a string of arrests in Harrison County.

Sheriff Matt Haley announced the arrest of 43-year-old Kristopher Gibson, 35-year-old Robert Barnett III, 34-year-old Jessie Ray, 43-year-old David Crenshaw, 52-year-old Randy Smith Sr, 53-year-old Tom Martin, 32-year-old Trevor Lykins, and 18-year-old Malcolm Franklin whom all reside in Harrison County. Each of them was charged with one felony count of Receiving Stolen Property.

These arrests stem from numerous instances of stolen copper at sites in Harrison, Hancock, and Stone counties.

Sheriff’s official says the copper was later sold to scrap companies.

More arrests are expected in this case.