(Jennings/Decatur Counties, IN) — An investigation into a string of thefts involving hundreds of pounds of copper wire and tools during Thanksgiving weekend in Decatur and Jennings counties has led to the arrests of two men from North Vernon.
The Jennings County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation last Monday after multiple construction companies reported thefts at the Southeastern Purdue Agricultural Center in Butlerville. Three companies were hit, resulting in a total theft of $63,545.34.
Decatur County Sheriff’s deputies also reported thefts from the same weekend. Investigators quickly identified 41-year-old Ryan Beeman as a suspect in the thefts. Deputies obtained a search warrant for Beeman’s home and found stolen items from both counties as they took him into custody.
A second search warrant led to the discovery of additional stolen goods. Authorities believe Beeman stole over $10,000 worth of copper wire, burned it down, and sold 362 pounds of copper at a scrapyard for approximately $1,000.
Beeman was arrested on charges of felony burglary, theft, and a felony probation violation warrant out of Decatur County.
During the search, 38-year-old Shaun Webb was also found at the residence and taken into custody. Authorities reportedly found methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia on Webb. He now faces charges for drug possession and paraphernalia.
Both Beeman and Webb are currently being held in the Jennings County Jail.
