2 From Louisiana Have Been Arrested for Wire Theft and Other Charges

Published November 10, 2021

A Vinton man and woman have been arrested in connection with wire theft.

Lake Charles, LA – Candice L. Landry, 36, and John D. Mitchener, 48, both of Vinton, were arrested on November 8 by Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office investigators after an investigation revealed they were responsible for utility wire thefts.

During the investigation, investigators discovered a section of a newly repaired utility line near Highway 90 and Batchelor Road in Vinton that had been damaged and taken. The mount to a surveillance camera in the area had also been damaged, and the camera had gone missing, according to detectives. Detectives discovered Mitchener dropped Landry off in order to take the wire during their investigation. When police made contact with Landry and Mitchener for a follow-up investigation, they discovered wire and protective casing that matched the type of wire stolen. Landry was also discovered to be in possession of wire-cutting equipment and drugs for which she did not have a prescription.
Both were apprehended and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center charged with theft $5,000 to $25,000; and simple criminal damage to property $1,000 to $50,000.

Landry was also charged with theft of less than $1,000; simple criminal damage to property of less than $1,000; illegal possession of burglary tools; and possession of a prescription of CDS and/or legend drug. Judge Tony Fazzio set Mitchener’s bond at $25,000 and Landry’s bond at $16,000.

Mitchener was previously arrested for utility wire theft in July 2021.

More arrests may be made as the investigation continues. Detective Lucas Josker of the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is the case’s principal investigator.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Featured image source: Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office