Law officials from Arizona and Nevada have teamed forces to bust a large-scale stolen property trafficking operation, which included 600 high-end drones valued at $1.2 million, according to News3LV. The operation, launched by Henderson Police with the assistance of the Bullhead City Police Department and other agencies, has resulted in the arrest of nine people, one of whom remains at large.
According to Fox5Vegas, information shared by Henderson authorities tipped off Bullhead City Police on March 13 about the drone heist that occurred on March 4, leading police to the home of the Loftin brothers, Eric and Chad, where police discovered not only drones but also illicit vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and firearms. Investigations have also revealed an extensive trafficking ring. HPD investigators detained Eric Loftin in Las Vegas on Thursday and charged him with numerous felonies.
While the elder Loftin confronts his felony charges, Chad Henry Loftin, 41, has evaded capture and is wanted for his alleged role in the stolen property trafficking operation. During the execution of five search warrants on Monday, the bust grew to include multiple persons connected to the operation, and goods were found in Bullhead City, Fort Mohave, and Topock.
As the number of arrests grows, individuals such as Jeffrey Loftin, 66; Randall Moore, 41; and Amanda Kerekes, 37, have been charged with offenses ranging from possession of stolen property to possession of drug paraphernalia. Michael McIntosh, 48; Stephanie Williams, 32; Jeanna Kreamier, 37; and Anthony Wadley, 42, have also been arrested on drug-related charges. Authorities are still searching for the missing drones and request anyone with information to call Bullhead City Police at (928) 763-1999.
