Troy Maples

A 33-year-old Pittsburg, Kansas man is being held in the Cherokee County Jail for his alleged involvement in the recent theft of copper wire from an area utility company.

Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies were alerted to suspicious activity in rural northeast Cherokee County on the evening of Monday, July 10th, 2023.  Based on the suspect vehicle description provided, and through coordination with the Crawford County Sheriff's Office, the vehicle was stopped outside of Pittsburg.

As the result of a roadside interview with the driver, and with suspected evidence located inside the vehicle, Cherokee County Deputies established probable cause to arrest the suspect, Troy Maples.

Maples was transported to the Cherokee County Jail, where he is being held on allegations of theft from a utility company, criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving on expired registration.

"The theft of copper wire from area telephone and electric companies continue to be an issue throughout the region, and area law enforcement are following up on additional leads and unrelated suspects," according to Cherokee County Sheriff  David Groves.

Anyone with information as to those responsible for these crimes are encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency.

Those wishing to provide tips to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office can do so by calling 620-429-3992 or by submitting a tip by text.  Just text 888777 and type 'tip cherokee' followed by whatever information you can provide.