Copper Theft Ring Busted

Webster Parish sheriff's detectives have busted a major copper theft ring, and arrested three people. For nearly a week, investigators have been working on more than 200 cases of copper oil and gas equipment thefts from gas well locations throughout Webster and Bienville Parishes. Last week, they brought in their first suspect -- 29-year-old Shane Nipper of Doyline -- after he and a female passenger were allegedly stopped and arrested by Bossier City police when they responded to a fight the two were involved in on I-20. Officers notified Webster Parish authorities after finding cut copper wire in the trunk of Nipper's car. Nipper has reportedly admitted to numerous thefts...and now, 41-year-old Robert Lewis and 28-year-old Donna Fultz, both of Plain Dealing, have also been arrested. All three face numerous felony charges. More arrests are expected in Bienville Parish.