A warrant has been issued in the February theft of a double axel trailer and excavator that was stolen off Arsene Lebleu Road in Lake Charles.

Calcasieu Parish Sheriff spokesperson Kayla Vincent said after executing multiple search warrants, detectives learned William R. O’Quinn Jr., 49, of Kinder traveled to the property on Arsene Lebleu Road the day prior to the theft. Detectives also learned O’Quinn was at the property the morning the theft occurred.

“Detectives discovered after O’Quinn stole the trailer and excavator he hid them in a wooded area off TV Tower Road in Jeff Davis Parish,” Vincent said.

Further investigation revealed O’Quinn sold the stolen property and delivered it to Brandon M. Courtney, 45, of Mena, Ark.

On April 10, detectives contacted deputies with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, who were able to locate Courtney and the stolen trailer and excavator. The VIN plate had been removed from the excavator, but PCSO deputies and CPSO detectives were able to match the engine number and the VIN on the trailer and confirm it was the items stolen from Lake Charles.

When PCSO deputies questioned Courtney, he said he purchased the items from O’Quinn. PCSO deputies arrested Courtney for being in possession of the stolen items.

CPSO detectives attempted to make contact with O’Quinn, at which time he did not wish to provide a statement. On April 14, CPSO VCIU detectives issued a warrant for O’Quinn’s arrest charging him with theft $5,000 to $25,000; and theft of a motor vehicle more than $25,000.

Judge Tony Fazzio set his bond at $70,000.