Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville Police Department, led by Chief Marcus Wood, has successfully apprehended suspects involved in a multi-state theft operation that targeted Walmart stores over the past two years. The coordinated effort by the department’s officers and support staff brought an end to the crime spree on July 9, following a swift and effective response to a theft report at the Jacksonville Walmart.
Sgt. Rebecca Deckard and Officer Clifton Edwards were the first to respond to the theft report, where they quickly realized that this was no ordinary case of shoplifting. With the assistance of Walmart’s loss prevention team, the officers reviewed video and photographic evidence, which allowed them to identify the suspects and obtain a crucial license plate number. This information was then relayed to the investigations division.
The case gained momentum when dispatcher Katelyn Pritchett, Sgt. Matthew Johnston, and investigations clerk/crime analyst Susan Tidwell shared the suspects’ details with local law enforcement agencies. In a remarkable turn of events, just 25 minutes after the information was disseminated, the suspects were apprehended by the Attalla Police Department as they attempted to leave the area.
The following day, Investigator Anthony Strawder collaborated with FBI personnel to further identify the suspects and solidify the case against them. This collaboration is expected to have a significant impact, potentially bringing an end to the suspects’ criminal activities that spanned multiple states.
Chief Marcus Wood expressed his gratitude and pride in the department’s officers and support staff, stating, “Our police officers do amazing things. Thanks to the team, this crime spree was brought to an end. We want to thank each of our officers and their support staff for their vigilance, diligence, and dedication to stopping crime.”
The Jacksonville Police Department’s successful operation highlights the importance of teamwork, quick thinking, and inter-agency collaboration in tackling complex criminal cases. This case serves as a testament to the department’s commitment to protecting the community and ensuring that justice is served.
