Roanoke Valley law enforcement reported the following:

Company commends detective for metal theft investigation 

The senior security manager for a solar company praised the work of Northampton County Sheriff’s Office Detective Brian Johnson for his investigation of a metal theft case, which led to the arrest of 41-year-old Jeffrey Brad Timberlake II last week.

Warrants allege that Timberlake, of Jackson, cut a perimeter fence at Cypress Creek Energy in Woodland and stole 6,934 feet of copper wire valued at $19,487.

Scott Mayo, the security manager for the company, said, "Please allow me the opportunity to commend Sergeant Brian Johnson for the recent arrest of Mr. Jeffrey Brad Timberlake II for the theft of photovoltaic wire at Cypress Creek Energy’s White Farm solar site in Northampton County. As you may be aware, cable theft for the source copper wire is a significant issue we are facing in North Carolina, particularly in the southeastern part of the state.”

Mayo added, “Your officers jumped on this case quickly and ultimately were able to tie the evidence we provided to a suspect. We are eager to make an example out of Mr. Timberlake in order to dissuade similar future incidents. Thank you for your officers’ efforts. We appreciate their work and efforts in this matter.”

NCSO Chief Detective Ashley Collier said Johnson began the investigation on February 14 after the company reported that someone had cut the fence to gain access to the property, damaged solar panels, and stole copper wiring.

Johnson linked the crime to Timberlake and obtained an arrest warrant on May 27.

Timberlake faces charges of felony injury to an energy facility, felony injury to property containing non-ferrous metal, first-degree trespassing, and felony larceny. He is scheduled for a June 11 district court appearance.

Meth arrest in Enfield 

Major Anzell Harris of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office reported that on Monday around 8 a.m., Corporal J. Morales observed a vehicle parked behind an old school on Pope Street. 

The driver, later identified as 26-year-old Nigel Knight of Rocky Mount, drove away.

During a traffic stop, Morales detected the odor of marijuana, and Knight allegedly admitted to smoking. During a subsequent search, a clear bag containing a crystal-like substance was located.

Knight was arrested and charged with possession of a Schedule II controlled substance. He has a July 8 district court date.