Investigators crack down on scrap metal dealers | Crime

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WECT) – Deputies in Brunswick and Columbus counties have worked together to crack down on scrap metal dealers.

The sting focused on scrap metal dealers and recycle centers that don't conduct proper background checks on customers who want to exchange metal for money.

Over the past week, investigators from each county served as undercover officers and approached scrap metal dealers to determine if they were complying with the law. Each dealer was given a copy of the laws pertaining to scrap metal over the last year and a half.

Six people in Columbus County were arrested during the operation. Sam Hunt Jr., Alberto Parades, Jackie Hunt, Larry Arnette, Guiford Barnes and Randi Stubbs are facing several charges each.

Charles Andrew Taylor was arrested in Brunswick County.

The investigation orginated after law enforcement officers had a meeting with officials at Brunswick Electric about copper and metal thefts.

Stay with WECT and WECT.com for more information as it becomes available.

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