Two men are in the Pike County Jail after law enforcement officers initiated an investigation into copper theft.

Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas said investigators and deputies arrested Donald Shane Long, 45, of Troy, and Bobby Joe Edgil, 46, of Antioch, during the investigation. Tomas said investigators had determined the men had allegedly stolen more than 300 pounds of copper from South Alabama Electric Cooperative.

Thomas said Long was in possession of methamphetamine during the arrest. Thomas said, when arrested, the men were with Taylor Spurlock, who had an outstanding warrant with the Troy Police Department. Thomas said Spurlock also was arrested.

In a separate case, Thomas said Payton Michael Roberts, 21, of Troy, was arrested and charged with first degree theft of property. Thomas said multiple guns were stolen – including a Remington .30-06, Browning 12 gauge, Winchester Model 290 .22 rifle and two crossbows in cases.

Roberts was also charged in another case for burglary of a residence where a Winchester Model 290 .22 caliber rifle, 300 Weatherby, 30-30 Marlin and a .22 1984 Model Marlin were stolen. The total value of all of the guns taken was more than $10,000. All stolen guns have been recovered, Thomas said.

Roberts was also charged with possession of marijuana and remains in the Pike County Jail.

“Thanks to the quick work and thorough investigation of our deputies and investigators, Pike County continues to be a safer place to live,” Thomas said.