By Monique Roth
L’Observateur

HAHNVILLE — A New Roads man has been arrested in connection with the theft of more than $13,000 worth of cell phones in Boutte last month, authorities said.

Sgt. Dwayne LaGrange said it is believed the mother of two juveniles also arrested in the same case paid the man for his participation in the crime.

The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office began investigating the shoplifting complaint Jan. 5 after two young black males stole approximately $13,600 worth of cell phones from Walmart in Boutte, a release from the Sheriff’s Office said.

Two 14-year-old juvenile brothers from Baton Rouge were arrested Jan. 22 in connection with the theft, and each was booked with one count of theft of goods over $1,500.

Sheriff Greg Champagne said the brothers were taken to the Assumption Parish Juvenile Detention Center after their arrest.

Authorities believe the brothers entered the store at approximately 4:20 a.m., forced open a glass-front cell phone cabinet in the electronics department and stole $13,666 worth of cellular phones before fleeing and joining a third suspect.

The third suspect, Kendrick Albert Dukes, 20, of New Roads was arrested Feb. 4 and booked with theft of goods over $1,500.

LaGrange said Dukes’ role in the crime is believed to be that of the driver, who was paid by the juveniles’ mother to drive the brothers during the crime.

The investigation is ongoing, LaGrange said, adding possible charges are being considered against the arrested juveniles’ mother.