Timothy Joyner (Left) Johnny Miller (Right)
ROANOKE RAPIDS — Two men have been arrested after approximately 2,000 feet of copper wire was stolen from a solar energy farm in the Airport Road area of Roanoke Rapids, according to the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the solar farm at approximately 7 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, after receiving a report of a copper wire theft. Investigators said approximately 2,000 feet of wire had been taken from the solar panels, resulting in a loss of more than $10,000 to the company.
Deputies returned to the same location at approximately 8 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, after receiving a report of two individuals walking around and entering the property.
Patrol deputies, agents with the Halifax Regional Drug and Gang Task Force, members of the Community Action Team and investigators responded and made contact with two individuals in the 100 block of Buck Drive.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, surveillance cameras placed around the property captured the individuals believed to be responsible. Investigators later identified them as Timothy Joyner of Roanoke Rapids and Johnny Miller of Massachusetts based on their clothing and tattoos.
Detective Sergeant I. Miller interviewed both men, and the Sheriff’s Office said both ultimately admitted their involvement.
Patrol Sergeant M. Sledge assisted Detective Sergeant Miller with the arrests.
Joyner was charged with felony breaking and entering, misdemeanor injury to personal property, felony larceny and felony possession of stolen goods or property. He was held without bond.
Miller was charged with felony conspiracy and felony possession of stolen goods or property. He received a $15,000 secured bond.
Both men were given Sept. 23 court dates.
The Sheriff’s Office said the stolen copper wire was recovered and returned to the company.
Patrol Lieutenant R. White, Community Action Team Sergeant D. Harrison, Task Force Agent C. Batchelor and Detective Sergeant M. Hasty also assisted in the investigation.
