More Arrests Made in Ongoing Telecom Thefts Investigations

An ongoing investigation into the thefts of telecom wire in Oconee County has resulted in the arrest of seven individuals. The suspects face various charges related to the thefts, including theft of metals that disrupted service to customers in parts of the county.

The thefts occurred from utility poles in January and February of this year at different locations including Pickens Highway, Highlands Highway, Sherwood Drive near Walhalla, and Longcreek Highway near Westminster.

The arrests, made by investigators from the Criminal Investigations Bureau, have cleared 10 cases related to the thefts.

The total cost of the telecom wire thefts, including materials and labor, is estimated to be around $97,123.00.

The seven arrested individuals arrested are identified as:

• Daniel Eugene Fortner, 36 years old from Westminster, SC
• Ricky Edward Wood, 61 years old from West Union, SC
• Bobby Chris McGuffin, 57 years old from Westminster, SC
• Jeb Daniel Hart 59 years old Walhalla, SC
• Harrison (Chip) Edward Orr Walhalla, SC
• Heather Rapheal Jarema 42 years old Walhalla, SC
• Evelyn Marie Shead 42 years old Walhalla, SC

The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate five additional cases of Telecom Wire theft which have occurred on Longcreek Highway near Westminster, Clemson Highway near Seneca, and Broadway Street near Seneca.

Anyone with any information on these thefts of Telecom Wire can provide tips to Crimestoppers, where you don’t have to give your name, at oconeesccrimestoppers.com. If your tip leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a cash reward.