Louisiana Man Arrested for Stealing Copper From FEMA Trailers

A Melville, La., man has been arrested on charges related to more than 200 FEMA trailers being stripped of copper wiring.

St. Landry Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Lt. Megan Vizena tells The Advertiser Walter Clyde Ryder was booked into the St. Landry Parish Jail on theft charges related to the copper thefts in the Melville area.

Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz says authorities received their first complaint on July 23 that 200 FEMA trailers were stripped of their electrical power wiring and cords.

Vizena said a tip to St. Landry Crime Stoppers assisted them in the solving the case.

Ryder was released on a $2,000 bond.

It’s not clear whether Ryder has an attorney.