Copper suspects caught after $11K in thefts

By Elisa Glushefski

Published: July 23, 2008

A determined business owner's actions helped catch the men alleged to have stolen more than $10,000 worth of copper from his Manassas-area business, Prince William County police said.

Officers received a report that $11,412.39 worth of copper was stolen from B&B Signal Company at 12150 Tac Court at about 12:27 a.m. July 17, said police spokeswoman Officer Erika Hernandez.

The owner of the business responded to the theft by sending an employee to check scrap metal yards in the area in attempt to track down the stolen copper, police said.

The employee allegedly saw the two suspects unloading the stolen property at a scrap yard in Fairfax County and called the police, Hernandez said, adding that Prince William police were also notified.

Darrell L. Clegg, 29, of 7359 Bunker Hill Road in The Plains, and Marlon L. Tuppince, 32, of 8303 Rolling Road outside Manassas, were each charged with grand larceny and trespassing.

Additionally, Fairfax police charged the duo with possession of stolen property, Prince William police said.

The two are accused of forcing their way into the business' gated lot and stealing the copper wire, Hernandez said.

The stolen copper was returned to the business, police said.

The owner of the business did not wish to comment for the story.

Tuppince, who was also charged with destruction of property, and Clegg are each being held without bond and are each scheduled to appear in Prince William County court Sept. 2.

Staff writer Elisa Glushefski can be reached at 703-878-8062.

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