2 charged after stealing wires from multiple light poles around Lakeland, police say
LAKELAND, Fla. (WFLA) — Two men were arrested last week after police said they stole wires from multiple light poles throughout various parts of Lakeland.
On Monday, the Lakeland Police Department announced that detectives began investigating the series of wire thefts and identified Toby Ledford, 46, and Adam Byrd, 38, both of Lakeland, as the suspects.
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Detectives said they observed Ledford driving a 2004 green Honda Element and stopped him in the 3000 block of Old Tampa Highway after committing “multiple traffic violations” on March 7.
When they searched the 46-year-old’s car, they found numerous bundles of wire, which had just been stolen from light poles that morning. Tools used to steal the wires, such as wire cutters, a ratchet sliver, a voltage meter, ban saws, a grinder, and walkie-talkies, were also found in his vehicle.
Photo courtesy of the Lakeland Police Department Photo courtesy of the Lakeland Police Department
In addition to stealing the wire, police said the light poles were also damaged in the process.
During an interview, Ledford and Byrd admitted to authorities that they were on their way to sell the wire to a scrapyard. The two were arrested as a result.
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According to LPD, Ledford was charged with dealing in stolen property, criminal mischief of $1,000 or more, and grand theft of $5,000 to $10,000.
Byrd was charged with dealing in stolen property, criminal mischief of $1,000 or more, grand theft of $5,000 to $10,000, possession of cannabis, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
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