Slick burglar arrested after DNA results

Published 12:04 am Friday, October 17, 2014

NATCHEZ — When DNA evidence enters into the picture, even a 5-gallon bucket of industrial lubricant won’t help someone wriggle out of the grasp of the long arm of the law.

Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Larry Thomas Lucas, 51, 93 Aldrich St., Wednesday on a bench warrant for five counts burglary of a commercial building.

ACSO Spokeswoman Courtney Taylor said Lucas was arrested for multiple burglaries at the Texas Refinery location on Col. John Pitchford Parkway. The first burglary in the string was in April.

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During the break-ins, Lucas allegedly took several thousand dollars worth of high performance oil used in heavy equipment and tractor-trailers.

During one of the burglaries, Lucas reportedly cut himself on a gate, leaving blood behind, Taylor said.

“They had several instances of surveillance footage of Mr. Lucas at the refinery, and investigators recognized him from his past criminal history,” she said. “Investigator Michelle Nations took a DNA sample and sent it to the crime lab, and it came back consistent with the DNA at the crime scene.”

Taylor said investigators believe Lucas stole the oil products in order to sell them and did not intend to use them for personal use.

The oil was stolen in 5-gallon containers and is expensive, Taylor said.

Lucas was detained in the Thursday in the Adams County jail on a $25,000 bond.