Center Crime Stoppers
Serving all of Shelby County, Texas

936-598-SAFE (7233)
http://www.centercrimestoppers.com

Diesel Theft, Three Suspects Arrested One at Large - May 10, 2013
Press Release

Joseph Tyreel Simpson CAPTURED May 10th - due to a Crime Stoppers Tip

Cortez Cartwright

Fredrick Tremayne Hewitt

On April 30, 2013, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office received a call from Larry Joe Eaves located at 214 CR 1005 in Center, TX in reference to a theft of Diesel Fuel. Upon arrival, Investigator John Pope made contact with Mr. Eaves where it was found that a 1,000 gallons of fuel had been stolen. Mr. Eaves also had several pictures of suspects stealing the fuel. Later that evening Mr. Eaves contacted Shelby County Sheriff's Chief Deputy, Shad Sparks and advised the stolen fuel was possibly located at LH Hewitt’s residence located on CR 2230. Upon Chief Sparks and Investigator Pope arrival on the scence, suspect Tremayne Hewitt was unloading fuel from a flatbed trailer matching the one seen in the photos. Upon further investigation it was found that suspects Tremayne Hewitt, Cortez Cartwright and Joseph Simpson had stole the fuel. Warrants were issued for all three suspects arrest. Suspects Tremayne Hewitt and Cortez Cartwright were both arrested and booked into the Shelby County Jail. Suspect Joseph Simpson is still at large. If you have any information leading to the arrest of Joseph Simpson, please contact the Shelby County Sheriffs Office 936-598-5601 or the Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE “7233”.

DeSoto Parish Crime Stoppers Felon of the Week - May 2, 2013
Press Release

DeSoto Parish Crime Stoppers Felon of the Week Program is asking for the public’s help in locating/identifying suspect(s) wanted from the DeSoto Parish Area.

Desoto Parish Crime Stoppers is offering a reward up to 1000.00$ for information that results in the suspects arrest, anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stoppers line at 1-800-505-STOP(7867) all calls are confidential or contact the Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318)872-3956, SGT. CHATO ATKINS OR SGT. JAMES CLEMENTS.

Crime Stoppers Need Your Assistance with Theft of TVs - May 1, 2013
Press Release

On Sunday April the 7th, a black male and a black female entered the Center Walmart and took a 32” flat screen HDTV. The two suspects left the store getting into what appears to be a blue car.

On Monday April the 15th, a black male enter the Walmart in Center, Texas taking two 32” flat screens LCD HDTV’s. The suspect left the store where he was met by another suspect in a black four door car where they left the scene.

If you have any information about this incident or can identify any of the suspects or vehicles please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn up to $1,000 in cash IF your information leads to the arrest or the recovery of the stolen property.

Seeking Information Concerning Theft of Wildcat Zero Turn Mower - April 12, 2013
Composed by J.J. Ford

According to Deputy Kurtis Lawrence, a 2010 SCAG Wildcat zero turn mover, 61 inch, was reported stolen to the Shelby County Sheriff's Department on Thursday, April 11, 2013 from a residence off of FM 417 West in the Clever Creek area. The owner, Michael Taylor, reported waking up Thursday morning and finding the mover gone. The Wildcat was taken sometime between the afternoon of April 10th and the morning of April 11th during the storm. It is valued at $3,500. The incident is under investigation by Investigator John Pope.

If you have any information about this case, please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect. And remember you don’t have your give your name!

(Photo: Stock image of mower. Not actual mower stolen.)

$7,000 Worth of iPads Stolen Wednesday Night - March 11, 2013
Composed by J.J. Ford

The Center Police Department is seeking your help identifying three individuals believed to be responsible for the theft of iPads from Walmart on Wednesday, March 6th shortly before midnight. Three black male suspects entered the store on the grocery side at 11:24pm. Two of the suspects traveled back to the electronics department and broke into the iPad display case taking $7,000 worth of iPads before leaving the scene in a black 4 door sedan vehicle. The theft is under investigation by Center PD Detective Joey Haley.

If you have any information about this case, please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspects. And remember you don’t have your give your name!

Crime Stoppers Seeking Information Concerning Truck and Trailer Theft - January 8, 2012
Composed by J.J. Ford

Stolen Truck Tractor discovered on CR 2045

The Center Police Department is currently investigating the theft of a truck tractor and flatbed trailer stolen from private property located in the 1100 block of Southview Circle, Center, Texas. The truck belonging to Ameritech was parked Friday night, January 4th and when the driver returned at 5:30am Monday morning, January 7, 2013 the truck and trailer were missing.

That same Monday the Shelby County Sheriff's Department received a call at 8:51am from a citizen that a trailer was blocking the roadway of CR 2045 and a truck tractor had been stripped for parts and left off the roadway a short distance from the location of the flatbed trailer. After arriving on scene, the Sheriff's Department ascertained the truck and trailer on CR 2045 was the one reported stolen to the city. The Sheriff's Department contacted the Center PD Criminal Investigation Division who are currently investigating the theft.

Center Pd Detective Joey Haley reported it is the third 18 wheeler stolen recently within Shelby County; two within the city and one in the county.

If you have any information about these cases, please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspects. And remember you don’t have your give your name!

On Wednesday, January 2, 2013, ten (10) burglaries were reported to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department. Investigator Pope with the Sheriff's Department advised that between the hours of midnight and 5:00am, unknown suspect(s) kicked the front door to the following businesses:

Worsham Grocery, Toledo Baptist Church, MKO Trucking, Harveys Landing, Lout Town Grocery, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Samson Oil Field Company, The City of Huxley, Air Port Scrap Metal, and a barn off of FM 2694 where a green Yamaha four-wheeler was stolen.

If you have any information about these cases please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000.00 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspects. And remember you don’t have your give your name!

Break-ins in Lake Pinkston Area - December 19, 2012
Submitted by Rhonda Bennett

The Lake Pinkston area has had five break-ins and two attempts in the past two months most of these occurring during the day time when home owners are at work. The one attempt at night was because the crook or crooks though the family had left. In the opinion of people in the area, it is someone that lives close to the area as only small items have been taken so far. The investigations of the crimes seem to be at a standstill with not new information.

Center PD Investigating Burglary at Medico Pharmacy - December 4, 2012
Composed by J.J. Ford

The Center Police Department received a call at 9:27am Tuesday morning concerning a break-in at Medico Pharmacy on Hurst Street in Center. Upon arrival on the scene, PD Officers were shown to the back of the store were suspect(s) had cut a hole in the wall of the building to gain access to the pharmacy area. The suspect(s) took a large amount of pills which included hydrocodone before exiting out the hole used to enter.

Center PD investigators recovered evidence at the scene and have a suspect.

K. B. Axen wants to reassure their customers that they are up and running and will continue to provide the quality of service their customers expect.

The burglary occurred sometime between 8pm Monday night and Tuesday morning. If you have any information, please contact Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or www.centercrimestoppers.com to send a web tip. Remember you don’t have to give your name, and you could receive up to $1,000 if your information leads to an arrest.

The incident is under investigation by Center PD Detective Joey Haley.

Crime Stoppers Seeking Information Concerning Theft of 4 Wheeler - November 6, 2011

Center Crime Stoppers are seeking your help in identifying suspect(s) responsible for the theft of a white 2006 Yamaha Banshee 4 wheeler.  Last night, Monday, November 5th, sometime between 10pm and 4am Tuesday morning, the 4 wheeler was taken from a residence located off of Loop 500 on Neville Road.

If you have any information, please contact Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or www.centercrimestoppers.com to send a web tip. Remember you don’t have to give your name, and you could receive up to $1,000 if your information leads to an arrest.

Photo: Not actual 4 wheeler.

Ford Focus Stolen & Burned - November 6, 2012

Center Crime Stoppers is seeking the community’s help in locating those responsible for the theft and destruction of a red Ford Focus. The vehicle was stolen on Sunday, Oct. 28 between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. from a residence on Carroll Street in Center.

A Ford Focus, which is believed to be the one stolen from Carroll Street, was discovered on CR 2020 on Monday, Nov. 5 when a hunter noticed the smoke from the vehicle, which had been set on fire.

The vehicle was completely destroyed, and Center Crime Stoppers needs your help to discover the identity of those responsible.

If you have any information, please contact Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or www.centercrimestoppers.com to send a web tip. Remember you don’t have to give your name, and you could receive up to $1,000 if your information leads to an arrest.

There will be an additional $500.00 reward given for the capture of this person along with the tip reward given out!

Burglary in Dreka - November 1, 2012

Between Sunday, October 21st and Tuesday, October 23rd unknown person or persons entered a residence located on Fm 139 in the Dreka Community. Once inside they stole several items including 3 Honey Creek Ranch Feeders with digital timers for deer feeders (No Barrel). If anyone purchased any of these items from an individual, please contact me at 936-590-9230. Thank You, Constable Shad Sparks

Crime Stoppers Now Offering $1,000 Reward for Information on Stolen Items - October 17, 2012
Press Release

The City of Center Police Department wants to alert the public to a rash of car burglaries around town. In an attempt to help catch suspect(s) involved the Center Crime Stoppers are now offering a Reward of $1,000 for the recovery of property or arrest of person(s) involved in these crimes!

One specific burglary which occurred happened sometime between September 9, 2012 and September 19, 2012 involved unknown suspect(s) entering a vehicle located at 630 Tenaha Street. There the suspect(s) took a nickel plated Smith and Wesson 357 magnum model # 19, revolver. The barrel was six inches long and it was complete with a basket weave holster.

If you have any information please, call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com and remember you don’t have to give your name.

Center PD Alerts Citizens to Rash of Car Burglaries - October 9, 2012

The City of Center Police Department wants to alert the public to a rash of car burglaries around town. Auto-burglary prevention, like all crime prevention, involves limiting the criminal's ability and/or opportunity to commit the crime. With very little time and effort, you can make a huge difference in your vulnerability to auto-burglary.

Don't be a victim. Move it or lose it! 30 seconds it takes a thief to break into your car and steal your valuables! 20 seconds it takes you to at least move valuables into your trunk, out of sight. Better yet, take them with you. Don't leave valuable items in your car.

If you must leave valuable items in your car while out and about, place items out of sight before reaching your destination or move them inconspicuously. This includes packages, backpacks, gym bags, GPS units, MP3 players, and so forth. Someone may be watching when you put items under a seat or throw something over them. An opportunistic thief is on the lookout for trunk-packing, and can break into your car the minute you're out of sight.

Set any alarm or anti-theft device and don't forget to lock ALL your vehicle's doors.

If you have any information about these thefts, please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com. Crime Stoppers is offering a $500 reward for the recovery of property or arrest of person(s) involved in these crimes and remember you don’t have to give your name.

Reward Offered for Stolen Travel Trailer - October 18, 2012

$1000 cash reward if being offered for information leading to the location of a 31' white Cavalier travel trailer stolen from residence on Shelbyville Highway Thursday, October 11, just after dark. A Cavalier travel trailer was seen going toward Nacogdoches on Highway 7 and had no lights on. This was approximately 7pm. The $1000 reward by owners will be paid if trailer is in same condition as when it was stolen. $500 will be paid if trailer has been destroyed or burned. Shelby County Sheriff's Department has all the information and an ID number is stamped on frame.

Remember you don't need to give your name, just your information. Call the Sheriff's office at 936-5600 or 936-590-4637. You can also call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip to www.centercrimestoppers.com.

Center Police Department Serves an Early Morning Search Warrant - October 17, 2012
Press Release

On Wednesday October the 17, 2012 at approximately 8:30am Center Police Departments, Tactical Narcotic Team, “TNT’’ executed a search warrant at 102 Smith Street. This derived from a Center Crime Stoppers tip informing that there were narcotics being sold at the residence. Center Police Narcotic Detectives followed up on the Crime Stoppers tip and confirmed that there were in fact Narcotics being sold at 102 Smith Street. There were three suspects arrested in the early morning raid, 30 year old Timothy Hubbard for Possession of Marijuana, 21 year old Jaleisa Rucker for possession of Marijuana and 23 year old Delandrick Standley for possession of drug paraphernalia. TNT recovered approximately $1,295.00 in cash and Marijuana with the street value of $300.00. Center Police Department, Center Crime Stoppers and the good citizens of Center would like to remind the local drug dealers that you are not only being watched by the local law enforcement but by the citizens as well.

The Center Crime Stoppers program gives all the citizens of “SHELBY COUNTY” a voice to report illegal activities in their area while remaining totally anonymous. If you have any information about any crime that has occurred or about to occur, please call Center Crime stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com. You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000 in cash if your information leads to the arrest of the offenders. And remember you don’t have to give your name.

The tipster who sent the information about the above case will receive $400 in cash no questions asked.

Let’s take back our streets and keep Shelby County a safe place to live.

Delandrick Standley

Jaleisa Rucker

Timothy Hubbard

Crime Stoppers Offers Cash for Information - September 14, 2012

Local Law enforcement is looking for 18 year old white male, Stephen Bryan McCoy who is wanted for warrants for four burglaries, thefts, and property damage. If you have any information in regards to his location please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com you don’t have to give your name and you could earn up to $1,000 in reward money if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect.

This month Center Crime Stoppers has paid one cash reward of $435 to a tipster who information lead to a theft ring and three arrest .

DeSoto Parish Crime Stoppers, Stolen Kawasaki Mule - September 11, 2012

DeSoto Parish Crime Stoppers Felon of the Week Program is asking for the public’s help in locating/identifying suspect(s) wanted from the DeSoto Parish Area.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff's office is asking for the public's help in a recent theft of a 2005 Kawasaki mule 610 4x4 camo. Between the dates of August 30, 2012 through September 6, 2012 sometime during the night hours a 2005 Kawasaki mule 610 4x4 camo VIN# JK1AFEC165B500416 was taken from Register Oilfield Services, Inc. which is located at 13737 Hwy 84 West in the Stanley area. The fence was cut and the mule was driven through the hold in the fence. The suspect or suspects attempted to put the fence back together. The owner is in the process of down loading the video from the business. The mule has a homemade roof made of metal with a moon roof that has plexiglas over it. The winch on the front is also homemade. The key was left in the mule.

Desoto Parish Crime Stoppers is offering a reward up to 1000.00$ for information that results in the suspects arrest, anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stoppers line at 1-800-505-STOP(7867) all calls are confidential or contact the Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318)872-3956, SGT. Chato Atkins.

Seeking Information Concerning Theft of Items in Shelbyville Area - August 22, 2012
Composed by Vickie Martin

On or about August 7, 2012 between the hours of 8am to 2:30pm, a theft of personal items occurred in the East Liberty/McClelland Community. The homeowner needs everyone's help in recovering items stolen during this burglary: 8 pistols, 1 rifle, 1shotgun, D3100 Nikon camera with extra lens, case, flash, batteries, charger, and 8 memory cards. Old coins, pencil drawings, 5 uncirculated $2 bills, Playstation 3 with several games (call of duty), jewelry, sentry fire safe (small), Acer laptop, and a 5 gallon Oasis jug full of coins.

If you have any information about this theft, please call the Sheriff's Department at 936-598-5601 or Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000 and remember you don’t have to give your name.

Center Crime Stoppers Needs Your Help to Solve a Theft - August 9, 2012

On Wednesday, August 7th, 2012 between the hours of 6:30am and 10:00am unknown suspect(s) went to a residence located on Schillings Street in Center, Texas. There the suspects took the following items:

• Trailer, Metal wire mesh, Tandem axle, green in color with a red gas tank attached to the top, front portion of the trailer.
• Grasshopper mower-series make 227/61-valued at $8100
• Three gas powered grass trimmers- one brand is Stihl, the other two were said to be "Shinawa"
• One Pole Saw- unknown value-Brand "Shinawa"
• One Edger-unknown value- Brand "Shinawa"
• 2 blowers-unknown value- one brand was Stihl, the other brand "Shinawa"

If you have any information about this theft please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000.00 and remember you don’t have to give your name.

Robbery at Mexico Lindo Restaurant - July 30, 2012

Press Release - On Friday July 27th 2012 at approximately 9:47pm two armed suspects entered the Mexico Lindo Restaurant located on Shelbyville Street in Center, Texas.

The armed suspects then ordered the employees to give them the money and ordered the employees to get on the ground at gun point. Both armed suspects then left the restaurant and fled the scene in an early 90's model white Nissan Maxima.

The suspects were described as wearing black pants, black shirts and wearing black masks.

If you have any information about this robbery please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn up to $1,000.00 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspects. And remember you don’t have to give your name.

DETEC Work Scheduled Overnight due to Copper Theft in Southeastern Shelby County - August 2, 2012
Press Release

In addition to a substantial amount of monetary damage, copper wire thieves have created an extremely hazardous situation inside the Deep East Texas Electri Cooporation Hurstown Substation. Due to high system loading, DETEC crews are scheduled to work at the substation during the early hours of Friday morning to remedy the situation. No outages are planned during this work. However, due to the nature of the work, a brief outage cannot be ruled out. Any potential outage would affect the Hurstown, Patroon, Dreka, East Hamilton and Goober Hill communities as well the southern portion of the Possum Trot community.

This copper theft has been reported to the Shelby County Sherriff’s Department. No arrest has been made at this time. Anyone with information regarding these crimes is asked to please contact the Shelby County Sherriff.

Police Seeking Information on Vehicle Hijacking Incident - July 24, 2012

Sunday July 22, at approximately 11:20 p.m. the Center Police Department received a call regarding a stolen vehicle at the Shofner Washateria located at 111 Thomas Street in Center.

The man was sitting in his white Chevrolet Silverado 4X4 when an assailant walked up to the vehicle and held an automatic handgun to the driver's head through the driver’s side of the truck, ordering him to get out of the truck. The thief then fled the parking lot in the truck. The suspect is described as a black male 6'1" to 6'4", wearing a black shirt, black pants, black shoes, and a black cloth over his face.

The vehicle is a white 1999 Chevrolet Silverado extended cab 4X4 pickup truck with license plate BD4-8928. The pickup has a black brush guard on the front of the truck, a black tool box in the bed, and a Texas emblem on the rear window. Anyone with information is asked to contact Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-7233 (SAFE), text Center PD and your message to 274637, or you can visit www.centercrimestoppers.com to submit a web tip.

Remember, you will remain anonymous, and could receive up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest.

Burglary of a Motor Vehicle at the Shelby County Appraisal District - June 28, 2012
Crime Stoppers Press Release

On Wednesday, June 27, 2012 the Center Police Officers responded to a burglary of a motor vehicle at 714 Shelbyville Street, the location of the Shelby County Appraisal District. It was reported to Officers that a black male wearing a white shirt and brown shorts broke into an SUV behind the Shelby County Appraisal District. There the suspect took a brown purse from the vehicle. The suspect was interrupted by the vehicle's owner and fled on foot. The purse was recovered but a wallet and the money was not.

If you have any information about this burglary please call Center Crime Stoppers at 1-936-598-SAFE or send a web tip to www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn up to $1,000 in reward money if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect. Remember you don't have to give your name.

Center PD Reopening 1997 Triple Homicide Investigation - June 27, 2012
Press Release from Center Police Department

At the request of the District Attorney’s Office, the Center Police Department is reopening the case for the murders of Percy Moore, Christy Calhoun, and Brian Brooks. The murders occurred on April 22, 1997 at 1406 Union St in Center, TX. Anyone with any information is asked to please call Detective Joey Haley at 936-598-2788 or Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or give a web tip online at www.centercrimestoppers.com.

Theft of Diesel Fuel - May 21, 2012

Sometime between Friday, 05/04/2012 and Monday 05/07/2012 unknown person or persons stole diesel fuel out of Precinct 2 Commissioner's road equipment that was located at a location on FM 417 east in the Huxley area. A vehicle was spotted in the area described as a red Dodge Pickup with a white diesel tank in the bed. This is going to be a person of interest. Anyone with any information concerning this theft please contact me at the number provided below.

Constable Shad Sparks - 936-590-9230 Home

Letter to Editor (Illegal Dumping At Sample Cemetery) - May 16, 2012

Over the past several weeks some unknown person or person's who likes to bow fish has dumped their catch in Sample Cemetery located in the Shelbyville area. This is not only a disrespectful act it is against the law and you will be charged with illegal dumping plus the cost of the clean up. Anyone that has any information in regards to this matter please contact me at the numbers provided below.

Thank You,
Constable Shad Sparks
936-332-0993

Crime Stoppers Seeking Information Concerning Burglary - May 7, 2012
Crime Stoppers Press Release

On Thursday, April 19, 2012 between the hours of 7:30am and 7:30pm unknown suspect(s) went to a residence located on HWY 87 North. Once there the unknown suspect(s) went to the back of the residence and broke out a window to the back of the residence. The suspect(s) then entered the residence and took assorted Jewelry, approximately $2,000 in old silver coins, assorted clothes and a Smith & Wesson model 10 revolver.

If you have any information about this burglary please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000.00 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect(s). Remember you don’t have to give your name.

Letter to the Editor (Stolen Boat) - April 18, 2012

There is a $2,500.00 reward offered for a stolen boat from Jimmy Lout's property at Williams Landing. The boat description is as followed:

2010 War Eagle Camouflage Boat with Stick Steering. It has a 40 Horse Power Honda Motor on a Black Trailer. This boat is registered in Louisiana .

If you may have any information pertaining to this stolen property, we would sincerely appreciate all the help we can get. You may contact us at any time:

Don Prudome:
Home-318-925-0319
Cell- 318-426-4724

Jimmy Lout
Home- 936-598-9693

Crime Stoppers Seeking Information Concerning Burglary - April 27, 2012
Crime Stoppers Press Release

On Thursday, April 19, 2012 between the hours of 7:30am and 7:30pm unknown suspect(s) went to a residence located on HWY 87 North. Once there the unknown suspect(s) went to the back of the residence and broke out a window to the back of the residence. The suspect(s) then entered the residence and took assorted Jewelry, approximately $2,000 in old silver coins, assorted clothes and a Smith & Wesson model 10 revolver.

If you have any information about this burglary please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward up to $1,000.00 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect(s). Remember you don’t have to give your name.

Center PD Seeking Burglary Suspect - April 24, 2012
Press Release

(Update) The Center Police Department is seeking any information on the whereabouts of Logan Eaglin. The suspect was arrested in connection to the burglary below. Once Eaglin was bonded out he fled from the Police Department. Anyone with information is asked to call Center Crime Stoppers at 598-SAFE or send a web tip to www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward of $1,000 if your information leads to Logan Eaglin's arrest. Remember you don’t have to give your name.

Logan Eaglin

Thomas Darrell Howell

On Tuesday, April 17, 2012 two suspects broke in to a residence located on Anderson Street taking clothing and electronics from the residence. Both suspects fled the scene on foot but were later identified as 23 year old Logan Eaglin and 22 year old Thomas Darrell Howell. Eaglin was located later and arrested but Howell is still at large. If you know the location of Thomas Darrell Howell, AKA “T”, please call Center Crime Stoppers at 598-SAFE or send a web tip to www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn a cash reward of $1,000 if your information leads to Thomas Darrell Howell’s arrest. Remember you don’t have to give your name.

Letter to the Editor (Theft of Property out of a Building) - April 23, 2012

On April 19, 2012, we discovered that the lock on our building (Leggett Trailers) at 104 Jackson St. in Joaquin had been cut and hung back in such a way that it was not readily detected. Upon entering the building we found it had been robbed of a Century brand wire welder (MIG), a set of Victor torches with hoses, gauges and cart but no bottles, a pedestal type drill press, a 14" chop saw with a broken cutting wheel, an old manual tire changer, three new P205-75-15 narrow white wall tires, some 12" trailer tires mounted on white 5 hole rims, and various hand tools. I haven't been in this building since the 1st of March so this could have occurred any time in the past 6 weeks. These items belonged to my late father (J.C. Leggett) and I would like to have them returned. If you have purchased these items in good faith I will be glad to buy them back. I will also pay for information leading to the incarceration of the thieves who perpetrated this crime.

Ps. If you would rather not deal with me directly, Please contact Sheriff Newton Johnson or Constable Billy Hearnsberger who are actively investigating this case.

Thank you in advance for your help,
Dennis Leggett

Center Police Department Seeking Information in Arson Case - February 23, 2012
Press Release

Sometime between the hours of 9:00am and 2:00am on Saturday, February the 18th, unknown suspects went to a residence located on Hutchins Street. The unknown suspect(s) then threw two fire bombs into the bedroom window of the residence. No one was at the residence at the time and the fire bombs did not ignite.

If you have any information about this crime, call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn up to $1000.00 if you information leads to the arrest of the suspect(s) involved. Remember you remain totally anonymous because you don’t have to give your name.

Theft of a Baby Colt in Joaquin - February 22, 2012
Submitted by Constable Billy Hearnsberger

Sometime during the night of 2/20/12 it is believed unknown person(s) stole a three week old stud colt from a residence on C. R. 3182 in Joaquin. The colt is a bay, brown in color, and has grey legs. He also has a white spot on his face. A witness reports that a cattle trailer was heard leaving the area of that residence around 3:30 a.m. Anyone with information regarding this theft is asked to contact Pct. 3 Constable Billy Hearnsberger at 936 269- 3839. Your information will be kept confidential.

Burglary Suspect Evades Arrest, Still At-Large - January 13, 2012
Press Release

On 12-12-2011 Center Police Department Officers responded to the Pine Terrace Edition in reference to a series of vehicles burglaries in the area. The suspect(s) took three (3) firearms, three (3) I-Pods, and other assorted items from the vehicles. Detective Stroud obtained information that lead to two suspects, Michael Lynn Jones age 19 (Photo) and one juvenile both of Center, Texas.

The juvenile was arrested and transported to Marshal, Texas; however, Michael Lynn Jones fled and is still at large. Michael Lynn Jones is presumed to be armed with the stolen firearms.

If you know the location of Michael Lynn Jones, please call the Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com . You could earn up to $1,000.00 if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect and remember you don’t have to give your name.

Theft of a Welding Rig - January 18, 2012

Update: Thank you Shelby County residents! Information received regarding this theft is as follows:

A witness reports seeing the theft of this trailer and welding rig on Jan. 9, 2012 just before 4:00 p.m. The witness observed two hispanic males take the trailer and welding rig in this case. They are described as follows: Hispanic male 60 years of age wearing a black cowboy hat, light blue shirt, blue jeans, and brown cowboy boots. The other was a hispanic male in his 20's wearing a straw hat, black cowboy boots with white on the tops of the boots. His pants were tucked inside his boots. He was wearing a black shirt and jeans.

They left the residence pulling the trailer with a late model white pickup. The younger man drove. The truck had damage to the right front fender and right headlight. It had chrome wheels with spinners or something similar in the center of the wheel. It had an image of a bass fish and a buck deer with antlers in the rear window and part of one window may have been broken. They left on U.S. 84 headed towards Tenaha.

Now Shelby County let's finish this case by catching these thieves and getting that property back to the owner. Someone out there knows these guys and I need to hear from you. Your information will be kept confidential. Please call Constable Hearnsberger at 936 269-3839.

Sometime around Jan. 12, 2012 a black 10' to 12' trailer carrying a welding machine was stolen from a residence on C. R. 3798 in Joaquin. On the trailer was a Red-D-Arc ZR8 welding machine. The trailer had small type wheels that are different from each other in appearance. The welding machine may have a very slight amount of yellow paint particles on the radiator. Also on the trailer was a cutting torch that was kept in a 6" pipe that was approx. 24" long with a lid that flipped over. It was transported on two small lawnmower type wheels. On the front of the trailer is an aluminum tool box that runs the width of the trailer and opens with one single lid. The trailer has oblong tail lights. The trailer also has two 14" - 16" pieces of pipe on the back that contains the leads. The trailer also has a 6' piece of channel iron that runs across the back. Also taken was assorted rods and hand tools and (3) Black and Decker grinders. This loss is valued at $6000.00. Anyone having information regarding this theft is asked to contact Constable Billy Hearnsberger at 936 269 3839. Your information will be kept confidential.

Cash Reward for information leading to Arrest - January 9, 2012
Press Release

Sometime between Friday, January the 6th and Monday, January the 9th unknown suspect(s) went to the back side of the Center Police storage building. Once there the suspect(s) used tools to pry open and tear a man size whole in the back side of the building. The suspect(s) then entered the building and caused an undetermined amount of criminal mischief while also committing theft as well. Texas Rangers were called to assist Center Police Department Detectives in the investigation.

If you have any information about this crime, please call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip to www.centercrimestoppers.com . Remember you don’t have to give your name because you will receive a number when you call. You could earn up to $1,000.00 in reward money if your information leads to the arrest of the suspect(s).

Pine Terrace Burglary - December 13, 2011

On Monday the 12th 2011 Center Police Department Officers were dispatched to Pine Terrace in regards to burglary of motor vehicles. One complainant reported that sometime in the night of Sunday the 11th 2011 and the morning of the 12th unknown suspect(s) entered his vehicle and took three firearms from his vehicle, they are described as one Remington 243 rifle, a Remington 3006 and a Smith and Wesson 357 revolver. Another complainant reported that during the same time an unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle and took a pink Apple I-Pod with a jeweled case, a small black bag with a Stella and Dot gold heart necklace and an orange pumpkin bowl containing assorted change. If you have any information about this crime Call 936-598-SAFE or send a web tip to www.centercrimestoppers.com. You could earn up to $1,000.00 if your information leads to the recovery of the property or arrest of the offender(s). And remember you don’t have to give your name. The Center Police Department would like to give the citizens of Center Texas and Shelby County the few tips that can reduce your odds of being a victim during the holidays.

(1) Keep your home well lit and keep your cars in a well a lit area.

(2) Lock the doors of the vehicle

(3) Report to your the local law enforcement any strange people that are hanging around in your area that you know don not live there.

(4) Take all your valuables out of your vehicle such as guns, laptops, I-pods, purses ect.

Letter to the Editor (Family Heirloom Stolen) - November 22, 2011

On Saturday, November 19, 2011, a trunk was stolen from my Mother's residence on Rainbow Drive. The trunk is very special to her. It was given to her by her grandmother and the trunk itself has been in the family for 7 or 9 generations. The items in the trunk can not be replaced among some of the items was a purple heart metal from my great-grandfather. If you took the trunk or have any information of who took it, we will not press charges. We are offering a reward for the trunk and contents. If you have any information, please call Sarah Waller 936-332-0493 or Sheri Hribal 936-591-2366.

Sarah Waller
(Photo is not the stolen trunk but one simular to my grandmother's trunk)

(Crime Stoppers) If you have any information that would lead to an arrest, you could earn up to a thousand dollars cash reward while remaining totally anonymous. Call Center Crime stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or summit a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com.

Stolen Trailer from CR 3801 - October 10, 2011

On or around 10/7/2011 a 1992 Lufkin flatbed trailer was stolen from property on C. R. 3801. The trailer was 45' to 48' in length and had Texas tag # 13575Y on it at the time of theft. Anyone with information regarding this felony theft is asked to contact Pct. 3 Constable B. F. Hearnsberger at 936 269-3839. Your information will be kept confidential.

Sunday Morning Burglary at Family Dollar - October 9, 2011
Press Release

On Sunday, October 9, 2011 Center Police Department Police Officers responded to the Family Dollar Store in reference to a burglary. Officer reported that the suspect(s) disabled the alarm and pried open the side entrance door. Once inside the suspect(s) appeared to go straight to the money safe that was bolted to the floor. The suspect(s) pried the safe from the floor and loaded it on to a yellow dolly that was also taken from the back storage room. The safe is described as a 2’x 2’ (black) Bass Security safe.

If you have any information that would lead to the arrest of the suspect(s) responsible for the burglary, you could earn up to a thousand dollars cash reward while remaining total anonymous. Call Center Crime stoppers at 936-598-SAFE or summit a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com. And remember you don’t have to give your name.

Stolen Vehicle Discovered in Pond - September 29, 2011
Press Release

Shelby County Sheriff Newton Johnson reports on Thursday, September 15, 2011, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department received a report of a vehicle in a pond. The vehicle was reported to be in a pond located on some property on CR #3659 near the Airport here in Center.

It was further reported the landowner was doing some work on the property and noticed the roof area of a vehicle visible in the water. The water level was low due to the lack of rainfall in the area which allowed the vehicle to be seen.

According to Sheriff Johnson, the vehicle was recovered from the pond by Hughes Wrecker Service and a check of the registration showed the vehicle had been reported stolen in 2001. The Dairyland County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas has been notified about the recovery of their insured vehicle. At the time of the vehicle theft the registered owner was a resident of Tenaha. The vehicle is a 1995 Ford Taurus 4-door sedan. It is unknown at this time how long the vehicle has been in the pond. This investigation is still open and anyone with information is asked to call the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.

Church Burglarized in Shelbyville Area - September 23, 2011
Press Release, Shad Sparks

Sometime between Sunday, September 18th and Wednesday, September 21st, an unknown person or persons entered Bennett Chapel Church located in the New Harmony Community. Once inside the Church two coke machines were broken into at which time an undisclosed amount of money out of each machine was stolen. Evidence was obtained at the scene. If anyone has any information concerning this crime please contact me at the numbers provided below or Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598- (SAFE) 7233. All calls will remain anonymous.

Crime Stoppers Alert, 8 Vehicles Broken Into on Pine Terrace Edition - September 22, 2011
Press Release

On 08-21-2011, Center Police Department Officers responded to a burglary of a motor vehicle in the Pine Terrace Edition in Center Texas. Once there it was discovered during the night time or early morning hours, eight vehicles had been entered without the knowledge and consent of the owners. There were a number of items taken out of the vehicles and the suspect(s) are still at large. If you have any information about these crimes contact the Center Crime Stoppers at 396-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com. Earn Cash for information!!! And remember, you remain totally anonymous because you don’t have to give your name.

Help Needed to Solve Theft of Camouflage Box Stand - September 22, 2011
Press Release

Sometime in the month of September unknown suspect(s) entered the Hawkeye Hunting club and took a 48’’X48” wooden, camouflage box stand with a green metal roof. If you have any information about this theft contact the Center Crime Stoppers at 396-598-SAFE or send a web tip at www.centercrimestoppers.com. Cash for information!!! And remember, you remain totally anonymous because you don’t have to give your name.

Law Enforcement Vehicle Burglarized; Weapons and ID Stolen - September 21, 2011
Composed by J.J. Ford

A Panola County Sheriff's Department vehicle was burglarized during the night of September 20th. Items taken included a M-16 fully automatic with 10 inch barrel, a Mosberg 12 gauge pump shotgun, Walther 380 pistol, ballistic raid vest, Panola County badge, Panola County SO id card and a Carthage Police Department id card, and other personal items.

If you have any information relating to this crime, please contact the Panola County Sheriff's Department at 903-693-0333.

Hay Stolen in Precinct Three

Constable Billy Hearnsberger for Shelby County Precinct 3 reported an unknown person or persons stole approximately 14 large rolls of hay from a pasture on C. R. 3290 in Precinct Three 3 - 4 weeks ago. Just reported is the theft of 150 square bales of hay taken from a barn on C.R. 3000 within the last 10 days. Hearnsberger would very much appreciate any information anyone could give him regarding this theft. Your information will be kept confidential. Constable Hearnsberger can be contacted at 936 269 3839.

Center PD Investigating Hate Crime

On Sunday, December the 5th, 2010, at approximately 6:54am Center Police Officers responded to a fire at Harry’s Smoke House located on Cora Street, Center, Texas. Officers arrived to find flames and smoke rolling from the roof of the restaurant. The Center Fire Department arrived and fought the fire putting the flames out. It was then reported by the Firefighters that we were dealing with arson. Firefighters advised that an unknown suspect(s) entered the restaurant and wrote racial slurs throughout the building. The ATF was notified and is working closely with the Center Police Department Detectives. Due to the nature of this crime, this is being investigated as a hate crime. If you know who is responsible for this crime or have any information on this or any crime, your help will be greatly appreciated. Contact Detective Stroud at 598-4244.