Oxford, AL — A quick and coordinated effort between the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and the Oxford Police Department resulted in the arrest of two men and the identification of a third suspect after an attempted fraudulent purchase at Beshears Tractor in Oxford.
The incident began when staff at the Kubota dealership became suspicious of a group of men attempting to buy multiple lawn tractors using what appeared to be fraudulent identification and loan approval documents. The employees contacted Calhoun County Sheriff Falon Hurst, who immediately dispatched deputies to the store.
Before deputies arrived, the suspects left the location. Authorities later discovered that the men had traveled to another Kubota dealership in a different county and attempted a similar scheme. When the suspects returned to the Oxford dealership, believing their financing had been approved, they were met by detectives.
The suspects attempted to flee. Two were quickly apprehended on-site and identified as Octavious Edward Elmore and Jamal Jareek Richardson, both of Charlotte, North Carolina. A third man fled the area. Oxford Police officers, including their helicopter unit, responded swiftly to assist in the search.
Through collaborative efforts, authorities identified the third suspect as Jaquez Jordan Joseph, also of Charlotte, North Carolina. He remains at large, and warrants will be obtained for his arrest.
Elmore and Richardson were charged with Obstruction of Justice and Possession of Marijuana. Additional charges related to the attempted fraud are anticipated as the investigation continues. Law enforcement officials believe the group may be connected to similar criminal activity throughout the Southeastern United States.
Sheriff Hurst praised the awareness and action of Beshears Tractor staff, whose prompt call likely prevented a significant loss. He also commended the Oxford Police Department for their rapid and effective support during the incident.
“This case shows how alert business owners and strong law enforcement partnerships can prevent crime and protect our communities,” said Sheriff Hurst.
