Nearly every television station has some form of law enforcement drama airing nightly. In most episodes, viewers are reminded of their rights whenever an arrest is characterized by actors and actresses. However, in real life, it is not always easy to keep emotions in check and remember the dos and don'ts of what to do if you are ever arrested.
One of the first things many criminal defense attorneys recommend is to never waive your right to remain silent. This recommendation includes if an officer is conducting an initial search incident to an arrest. If an item that could be potentially incriminating is found, it is better to avoid making any statements that could suggest any involvement in a crime.
In an arrest near DeLand, three individuals from Volusia County were held recently for their alleged involvement in the theft of copper and other industrial equipment. Following their arrest, the two men and one woman were charged several offenses including; burglary, criminal mischief, attempted grand theft, drug related offenses, as well as resisting an officer without violence.
After a call from a witness, a local deputy discovered the suspects at an abandoned business. Upon further investigation of the area, authorities stated they found footprints that matched the bottom of one of the men's shoes, a ledger that contained a list of names and what was considered additional evidence that illustrated the trio's plan to steal industrial equipment and copper.
According to reports, the industrial equipment in the abandoned business was allegedly stacked in piles to be removed for sale.
One of the individuals arrested in this recent incident was said to have had three outstanding warrants for various violations. It is unknown if the other two individuals have a history of criminal offenses.
Over the last 10 years the theft of metals such as copper and aluminum has increased. It is believed this is because of the high net price it yields from scrap metal dealers. Items such as copper wire, pipes and even street poles have been targeted by thieves. If successfully sold, the items can net thousands of dollars for sellers.
Source: Orlando Sentinel, "Trio of filthy, bungling thieves caught, deputies say," Arelis R. Hernandez, June 2, 2012
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