Shreveport Man Arrested for Stealing Over 3 Miles of Telephone Wire, Disrupting Communications

Wire theft aftermath

Shreveport Man Arrested for Stealing Over 3 Miles of Telephone Wire

In a curious turn of events, a Shreveport man has found himself behind bars after being accused of stealing a staggering 17,150 feet of telephone wire from various locations around the city. The man, identified as Benjamin D. Womeldurf, 42, was nabbed by authorities who referred to him as a “wire bandit.” This theft crime spree reportedly caused significant interruptions in communication services, even affecting the crucial 911 emergency system.

The Investigation Begins

The saga began on August 31 when Caddo Parish sheriff’s detectives intercepted surveillance footage linked to one of Womeldurf’s alleged thefts. The video captured a 2012 silver Honda Fit with two individuals inside, ultimately allowing the detectives to identify Womeldurf as one of the suspects.

Officials reported that the hours and days spent stealing wiring from telecommunications infrastructure caused considerable service disruptions not just for AT&T but potentially for residents who rely on stable communication services. AT&T revealed that the thefts spanned from July 18 to September 18, and the stolen wire totals more than 3.2 miles.

A Search That Revealed More

convicted felon, he is legally prohibited from owning firearms.

Arrest and Previous Charges

Caddo Correctional Center including the unlawful possession of a firearm and charges associated with the wire theft. eight-year suspended sentence and three years of supervised probation.