McCracken County Sheriff’s Office investigates cell phone theft

PADUCAH, Ky. (KBSI) — Detectives with the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office have arrested three individuals in connection with a cell phone theft ring.

The investigation began on April 2, 2025, after a report of a stolen cell phone in McCracken County. Detectives discovered that the stolen phone had been sold to an ECO ATM cell phone kiosk.

Further investigation led to the identification of Jerry Peck, 47, of Paducah, who had participated in numerous phone transactions since January 2025. Peck, a package handler at a local mail distribution center, was allegedly stealing phones from packages and allowing them to be shipped empty.

Peck was arrested on April 24, 2025, and charged with multiple counts of receiving stolen property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A search warrant executed at Peck’s residence on April 30, 2025, yielded additional evidence, including methamphetamine, marijuana, and cell phone packaging materials.

Larry Collins, 70, of Paducah, was cited to court for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Diana Evitts, 45, of Paducah, was arrested on May 5, 2025, and charged with complicity to theft by unlawful taking.

The investigation is ongoing, led by Detective Cameron Thomason with assistance from the Paducah Police Department.