Organized Copper Theft Ring Uncovered in Jasper County; Three Arrested, One Still Wanted

JASPER COUNTY, TX — A month-long investigation by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office has led to multiple arrests in what authorities describe as an organized copper theft operation targeting electrical substations and local businesses across Jasper County.

According to Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard, several Jasper-Newton Electric Cooperative substations were repeatedly hit by copper thieves over the past month, prompting an extensive investigation led by Investigator Noel with the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division.

Investigators gathered substantial evidence throughout the case, including photographs, witness statements, and interviews, which ultimately revealed a coordinated theft operation involving multiple suspects. Authorities say the group allegedly stole large quantities of copper from substations and other businesses, transported it to various residences, burned off the protective coating, and then sold the copper to a local scrapyard.

The investigation further determined that two suspects had been selling significant amounts of stolen copper over several weeks while allegedly using different forms of identification in an attempt to conceal their involvement. Sheriff Havard said the evidence indicates the thefts were organized and systematic in nature.

As a result of the investigation, warrants were obtained and the following suspects have been arrested:

• Dustin W. Ross, 41, of Jasper — arrested December 16, 2025

• Melissa Loudenslager, 34, of Jasper — arrested December 16, 2025

• Joseph D. Arnold, 62, of Jasper — arrested December 15, 2025

All three have been charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a third-degree felony.

A fourth suspect, Trey D. Price, 38, of Jasper, remains at large and is considered a fugitive with an active warrant for her arrest.

Anyone with information regarding Price’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office immediately at (409) 384-5417.

“All suspects are innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law,” Sheriff Havard emphasized.

Sheriff Havard praised the work of his investigative team, stating, “I want to commend Investigator Noel and our CID Division for promptly identifying and arresting these individuals for these thefts. We will work hard to hold individuals responsible when they take things that don’t belong to them.”

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office says it remains committed to combating organized criminal activity and protecting critical infrastructure throughout the county.