Champaign Police, the Champaign County Sherriff’s Office, and the Urbana Police Department served a search warrant in the 500 block of W. Beardsley Friday, January 18 in connection with the recent incidents of criminal damage and thefts of copper from various businesses and residences within Champaign County.
The warrant resulted in the recovery of numerous items suspected to be stolen property. Officers also arrested Verles D. Bolton, 46, and Krystal L. Malone, 27, both of Champaign on Champaign County warrants for Criminal Damage to Property, (Class 4 felony). Officers later located another suspect, Kendall T. Andrews, 33, of Champaign in Urbana, Andrews was also arrested on a Champaign County warrant for Criminal Damage to Property, (Class 4 felony).
Investigators suspect this group is responsible for numerous incidents of theft and criminal damage. The intent of this group is to steal copper and other valuable metals and then sell the materials to area salvage companies. Police believe this group is responsible for thefts and damage to property in excess of $100,000 in just the last six months.
At this time the investigation is ongoing and Investigators are looking for additional suspects.
In addition, anyone with information regarding this crime or any other crime is urged to call the Champaign Police Department at (217) 351-4545 or callers can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at (217) 373-8477 (TIPS). Information can also be provided via internet at www.373tips.com or text information anonymously by texting CCTIP plus information to 274637 (CRIMES).