A months-long investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) SCRAP Team has led to the dismantling of a group responsible for numerous fiber optic cable thefts in Jacksonville and Bradford County. The investigation, which began in October, identified Archie Crook as the ringleader of the operation.
The suspects allegedly posed as utility workers to steal fiber optic cables, which they then stripped for their copper content. Initial efforts resulted in the arrests of Steven Midyette, Van Arnold, Darrick Rhoden, Terry Thompson, and Donald Tyre.
Further investigation, utilizing surveillance footage, witness statements, recycling records, and advanced investigative techniques, linked these individuals and additional suspects to more than 15 thefts across Jacksonville and Bradford County. This led to the subsequent arrests of Archie Crook, Corttney Kowalski, James Bennett, and Leslie Bennett, who were reportedly caught in the act during another attempted theft.
The investigation also resulted in the seizure of stolen copper, tools used in the thefts, and illegal drugs.
The JSO highlighted the impact of these thefts on the community, noting that the stealing of fiber optic cables can disrupt high-speed internet access for residents. Additionally, the cost of replacing the stolen cables is ultimately borne by utility customers.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office extended their gratitude to their partners at the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office and Attorney General Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution for their assistance in bringing this operation to a close.
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