Teen Charged in Memphis Boxcar Burglary Spree, Alleged Theft of Over $11k in Goods

According to police reports, an 18-year-old has been arrested and faces multiple charges after a spree of boxcar burglaries in South Memphis. Dedrick Williams was charged with eight counts of boxcar burglary, theft, interfering with railroad property, and evading arrest. The series of incidents occurred on Veteran’s Day when several suspects were spotted unloading goods from a train near Elmwood Cemetery,

Action News 5

reported.

The Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to a prowler call early Monday. Upon arrival, they noticed individuals heaving boxes down to others waiting below. The sight of the officers prompted a run, ending with Williams’ apprehension. According to

WREG

, approximately $10,800 of merchandise was recovered, including Worthington coats, Liz Claiborne purses, basket organizers, and 100 packs of Hanes underwear. This recent theft underscores a persistent issue for Memphis’ railways, with past incidents involving tens of thousands of dollars in Nike merchandise.

While Williams denied all involvement, the evidence led to him being the only one charged. The MPD apprehended two individuals on Monday, yet the status of others involved has not been updated. Gregory Anderson, a resident, expressed relief at the apprehension, recognizing the vast array of items regularly shipped by rail, “from tanks and weaponry to all kinds of chemicals,” indicating a potential threat if such goods fell into the wrong hands,

WREG

detailed.

One neighbor, who remained anonymous, lamented to

FOX13

the recurring issue of train burglaries, which have plagued the area for over three decades. “It’s a big problem,” she said, indicating a recent uptick in such thefts, particularly distressing as the holiday season approaches. The problem has caused distress among residents, with some feeling helpless despite their efforts to report and address these persistent burglaries.

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