Stacy Warren Carpenter, 53, of Ponchatoula, has been arrested in connection to a series of copper wire thefts across Tangipahoa Parish. The thefts, which targeted AT&T wires, began on August 5, 2024, and continued until January 13, 2025. Detectives from the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office identified Carpenter as a suspect after he was seen near Ponchatoula High School during Hurricane Francine on September 11, 2024, allegedly loading stolen copper wire into a truck.
When deputies attempted to engage with Carpenter, he fled the scene but was later apprehended on January 10, 2025. Carpenter now faces multiple charges, including felony theft, possession of stolen property, resisting arrest, and criminal conspiracy.
Kevin Allen Stevens, 45, of Hammond, along with 52-year-old Sandie Albin and 61-year-old Huey Edwards, both of Hammond, are also wanted in connection to the copper thefts. A search of Stevens’ home revealed evidence of bulk copper theft, drugs, and firearms. Stevens faces numerous charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and looting.
The thefts, which have caused significant disruption to AT&T’s services, have been linked to costs exceeding $35,000 per incident. Authorities are continuing their investigation and expect further arrests. Anyone with information on the thefts is urged to contact the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office.
