Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz announced another arrest related to the copper thefts in the Melville area. Christopher D. Holeman was booked into the St. Landry Parish Jail and is facing a charge of felony theft.
Earlier in the week, it was announced that Walter "Bubbie" Ryder was charged with felony theft after investigators received a tip that Ryder was the subject responsible for the copper wire thefts in Melville. Sheriff Guidroz stated earlier in the week, "Detectives were able to use that tip to lead them to Walter Clyde Ryder. Ryder's permission was given to search his property where detectives recovered 2 large containers containing camper electrical cords and shaved copper wiring. When questioned about the wiring, Ryder admitted to the crime."
After further investigation, investigators were able to find records of numerous sales of copper made by both Ryder and Holeman from April to July 2012.
Holeman is being held at the St. Landry Parish Jail on a 10,000 bond.