Police nab traffic signal thief thanks to efforts of local citizens

Wake Forest Police have arrested a Raleigh man for stealing a downed traffic signal thanks to the vigilance of several residents who reported witnessing the crime.

Just after 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 9, officers responded to a reported larceny in progress at the intersection of Dr. Calvin Jones Highway/NC 98 Bypass and US 1/Capital Boulevard. Several witnesses called the Police Department to report that a suspect was attempting to steal a traffic signal that had been damaged during a recent vehicle crash and was on the ground beside the roadway. The witnesses provided a description of the suspect and his vehicle, along with the license plate number. One person even took a picture of the suspect committing the larceny, which they provided to officers investigating the crime. 

A short time later, law enforcement was able to locate the suspect, Kohle Edward Seanor, at his residence, 13001 Bellford Court, Raleigh, along with the stolen property which was returned to the NC Department of Transportation. 

Police charged Seanor, age 19, with felony larceny and transported him to the Wake County Detention Center. 

Police Chief Jeff Leonard commended the witnesses who reported the larceny and said Seanor’s arrest is a textbook example of what can happen when citizens serve as the police department’s “eyes and ears” and report criminal activity to law enforcement.

“Just last week we posted a message on our Facebook page reminding residents to report crime and suspicious activity to law enforcement before posting the information on social media,” said Leonard. “On Sunday, we see the good that can be done when citizens stay alert and report criminal activity the proper way.”

As he did last week, Leonard emphasized that the police department investigates every lead it receives, so community cooperation is essential in the fight against crime.   

“No law enforcement agency can function effectively without the assistance of responsible citizens,” he said. “We rely heavily on community assistance to catch criminals and deter crime. We take every call seriously and sometimes one call can make all the difference.”

Anyone witnessing or experiencing suspicious activity is urged to call 9-1-1 or 919-556-9111. In cases involving a vehicle, please note the vehicle’s license plate number and any other identifying or incriminating aspects, such as the color, make and model.