Burglary/larceny ring busted

Marshall County investigators and deputies raided a huge burglary/larceny storage area in the 1200 block of Highway 309 South, Satur­day, Jan. 20, according to sheriff Kenny Dickerson.

The execution of a search warrant of a residence turned up an estimated $50,000 in stolen goods, he said. And more is expected.

Dickerson said an arrest in Yalobusha County of a man who was stealing beer from a store led to the identification of the suspect and the issuance of the search warrant in Marshall County.

The burglary ring contained evidence relating to 12 burglary/larceny cases from Marshall County, Lafayette County, DeSoto County, Olive Branch, Panola County and Water Valley.

“It is one of the largest theft rings we’ve uncovered in awhile, and I think there will be a lot more evidence before this investigation is concluded,” Dickerson said. “We have reason to believe there is much, much more stolen property.

“Some of the property located at the residence on Highway 309 South included a large construction trailer loaded with saws, tools, ladders, air tanks, power wrenches – you name it.”

Many stolen guns and other items were found inside the residence.

“My opinion is that the storage in this house and in a building outside has been there for several weeks due to tire marks and packed earth in the drive area,” he said.

Also, outside the building were motorcycles, four-wheelers, a 16-foot bass boat, and much more.

“No telling what has been already sold,” he said.

James Henry West Jr., 34, of the 1200 block of Highway 309 South, is in custody in Water Valley following a pursuit after he was caught shoplifting in the early morning hours, the sheriff said.

Dickerson said he expects several more arrests may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.