Click on thumbnail to enlarge

A man from Caddo Parish has been charged with two counts of theft following an investigation into the alleged theft of electrical services, according to Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr.

On September 2, 2026, the Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office received a report from SWEPCO regarding the theft of electrical services at a residence on Seminole Drive in the 3400 block. SWEPCO indicated that this was the second reported theft of electrical services at the same address within a year, resulting in a combined loss of over $5,000.

During the investigation, detectives identified Shane Starret, 51, as a resident of the address. SWEPCO representatives reported discovering various cables running from a power pole to the residence. 

Detective Douglas of the Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office investigated the complaint and found that the residence did not have active electrical service. He also observed electrical-related items outside the residence that matched the wiring SWEPCO described.

On September 24, Detective Douglas obtained an arrest warrant for Starret on two counts of theft. At the time, Starret was already being held at the Caddo Correctional Center on unrelated charges. The two theft charges were subsequently added to his existing charges.

For questions regarding this press release, please contact Breck Scott