News : Vinton Police arrest Marion man for storm-related scrap metal thefts

William Cox

This truck was used by a man arrested for storm-related thefts of scrap metal in Vinton.

Vinton Police have arrested a Marion man for a second time in connection with thefts of scrap metals from storm damaged structures in Vinton since the July 11th storm.

William Cox, 51, of Marion was initially arrested by Vinton Police for Driving Under Suspension on Thursday, when the owner of a storm damaged property caught Cox loading old air conditioning units into his pickup truck. Subsequent investigation determined that Cox had taken several loads of such materials to a scap metal recycler and sold them since the July 11 storm.

Friday, Vinton Police were alerted to another area of Vinton by a retired Vinton Police Officer. Cox was caught attempting to load a storm damaged electrical transformer belonging to the Vinton Municipal Electric Utility into his truck.

William Cox has been charged by Vinton Police with 3 counts of Theft 1st Degree, a Class "C" Felony, in connection with his alleged entry into storm damaged structures to commit thefts. Vinton Police are continuing their investigation, and additional charges are likely.

If convicted, Cox faces up to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine for each count. Cox remains in the Benton County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bond.

Iowa law provides for enhanced penalties for persons found guilty of entering structures damaged by natural disasters for the purpose of committing any theft.

Vinton Police are seeking the public's assistance in this case. If anyone has observed Cox, or his vehicle in the Vinton area, they are urged to contact Vinton Police at 319-472-2321 ext. 648.