Published: April 01, 2009 05:50 pm      

Authorities uncover alleged theft ring

NATCHEZ — Authorities say more arrests are possible in the investigation of an alleged theft ring accused of stealing more than $300,000 in merchandise across Mississippi.

So far, three men are in jail.

Adams County Sheriff’s investigator Ricky Stevens says it’s not common to see theft rings as widespread and organized as the one busted last week.

Authorities say the ring was exposed when 34-year-old Darin McCoy of Natchez was arrested last Wednesday while allegedly trying to steal a high-end riding lawn mower.

Authorities from Columbia, Franklin County, Hattiesburg and Lincoln County are working on the investigation. The Department of Agriculture, which investigates large equipment thefts, is also assisting in the probe.