Three Magnolia area residents are facing charges of Theft of Copper after a homeowner arrived to find the suspects stealing the copper, which led to a car chase.

Sgt. D. Park of the Montgomery County Pct. 5 Constable’s Office was dispatched to a disturbance at FM 1488 and Abney Lane on Oct. 20, at 4:30 p.m.

Park met with a male resident who said his home, which had been destroyed in the recent wildfire, was being robbed of copper.

According to a press release, the homeowner searched for the thieves and located them at a local scrap yard. The suspects fled in their vehicle when the homeowner pulled into the scrap yard parking lot.

The homeowner proceeded to follow the suspect’s vehicle which led to a car chase. The suspect driving the vehicle, identified as James Counts, stopped the vehicle on the side of the roadway on FM 1488.

The homeowner stated that three suspects exited the vehicle and fled on foot.

When Park arrived, he recognized the vehicle and stated that he knew where the suspects may have fled to.

Park arrived at the suspected residence and was met by Brian Smith, 37. Smith told Park he was riding in the vehicle with Counts and the two had just returned home from the scrap yard.

According to the press release, as Park searched the residence he found Terry Sirmans, 37, hiding in a bedroom. Sirmans also stated that she had been at the scrap yard with the two male suspects.

While detaining Smith and Sirmans, Park discovered methamphetamine on Sirmans’ dresser.

Smith and Sirmans were both taken back to the homeowner’s location where the homeowner positively identified both suspects.

As of press time last week, Counts had not been located, however, charges have been filed and his vehicle was seized, according to Pct. 5 Constable’s.

Smith, Sirmans and Counts face charges of Theft of Copper, which is a felony. Sirmans also faces charges for Possession of a Controlled Substance, which is also a felony.

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