WILLIAMSON COUNTY, ILLINOIS (NewsFirst) — On February 15, 2024, at 1045 hours, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to the report of a suspicious vehicle and theft in progress on Power Plant Road near Lake of Egypt.

Responding Deputies discovered James A. Avant located at the site of a utility substation attempting to load a large spool of wire into his pickup.

While investigating Avant confirmed the wire did not belong to him and was taken into custody.

Avant was also discovered to be in possession of Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Avant was arrested and cited for the following:

Possession of Methamphetamine

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Possession of Adult Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle

Avant was transported to and remanded into the custody of the Williamson County Jail.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is continuing it’s attempt to locate the company or sub-contractor owner of the stolen wire and is asking for the public’s assistance.

If you have any information concerning this or any other investigation, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618.997.6541 or “Submit A Tip” on the Williamson County Sheriff’s App.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s App is a great way to keep informed and can be downloaded at the App Store (Apple/Iphone) or on Google Play (Android).

Your information is important, and those who “Submit a Tip” by using the Sheriff’s App may choose to remain anonymous.