Two arrested after stolen refrigerator is recovered

Two men were arrested after a stolen refrigerator investigation led Simmesport police to recover the missing appliance.

The Simmesport Police Department identified the suspects as Jeffery Lee Smith, 40, and Dale Daigrepont, 67.

According to police, the investigation began Aug. 15 when an off-duty Simmesport detective noticed two people pulling a refrigerator on a dolly along Mission Drive. The detective recorded video of the individuals and the appliance.

About two days later, a renter reported that a refrigerator had been stolen from a residence.

Police said investigators showed the video during the investigation and the renter identified the individuals seen with the refrigerator.

Detectives said the investigation established probable cause to arrest Smith and Daigrepont.

Both men were charged with criminal conspiracy and illegal possession of stolen things.

Investigators also obtained a search warrant for the residence of one of the suspects. Police said officers executed the warrant and recovered the stolen refrigerator.

The Simmesport Police Department said it remains committed to investigating property crimes and pursuing cases when probable cause exists.

All persons arrested are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.