Kilgore man caught stealing copper

The theft of copper wire continues to be popular here. Gregg County Sheriff 's Department and Kilgore Police are working cases.

Brant Edward Biggs, 31, of Kilgore was arrested last week after an incident of copper thievery on Fritz Swanson Road. A witness reported to deputies that he had seen a male stealing copper wire and was able to provide the license number of a red GMC Sports Utility Vehicle.

According to Mike Claxton, sheriff 's lieutenant, deputies were investigating this offense when a field unit intercepted a vehicle matching the description of the witness' report, traveling west on FM 1252.

Claxton said a Gregg County deputy was attempting to stop the SUV when the driver left the road and parked the vehicle behind a house in the 6500 block of State Highway 135.

According to Claxton the driver attempted to evade deputies and Kilgore Police by running into the woods, but was arrested after search.

Claxton said investigators discovered some copper in the SUV which has been linked to the Fritz Swanson Road theft.

According to Claxton, investigators continue to look at other recent copper thefts in the area to determine if Biggs can be connected.

Biggs was charged by probable cause affidavits with theft, evading arrest and possession of marijuana under two ounces. Deputies also learned that Biggs was wanted on a previous assault and that a warrant had been issued on that case for his arrest.

Biggs attended an arraignment hearing Friday. Bonds were set totaling $10,000.