In December 2023, the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office received reports from Black Warrior EMC of the theft of copper wire from their power lines. Investigators discovered wire was stolen from the power lines from 5 or more different locations in Choctaw County from November 2023 to January 2024. Through various investigative means, investigators were able to identify JEREMY MATTHEW HEARN, 37, of Butler and THOMAS ANTHONY JENKINS, 28, of Butler as suspects. Further evidence revealed HEARN and JENKINS stole approximately 23,000 feet of copper wire which caused approximately $40,000 worth of damage to the power lines.
On January 21, 2024, THOMAS ANTHONY JENKINS was arrested for Theft of property 1st in reference to this case, as well as Burglary 3rd , Possession of a Controlled Substance and Probation Violation which are related to different incidents. JENKINS remains in the Wilcox County Jail with no bond. On January 22, 2024, JEREMY MATTHEW HEARN was arrested for Theft of Property 1st in relation to this case and subsequently posted a $30,000.00 bond. As always, we appreciate the tips and information we receive from the community to help solve and prevent crime.
