ast and
Major Offenders Divisions, along with investigators with the Federal
Communications Commission, were able to arrest two suspects who
had been transmitting over several HPD radio frequencies without
authorization. The suspects routinely made racist and vulgar comments
on HPD frequencies, causing major interference. Over the course
of several months and long hours of investigation, HPD and FCC
investigators were able to identify the suspects.
Suspect McCollum was followed from his home and
observed talking on a modified ham radio while driving on Beechnut.
Shortly thereafter, during a second transmission, FCC investigators,
with the use of radio-direction finding equipment, were able to
positively identify the vehicle from which the signals were being
transmitted. McCollum was stopped and taken into custody in the
3600 block of Chimney Rock about 8 a.m. on Monday (February 12).
In addition to the ham radio, officers discovered a firearm and
two pairs of handcuffs in his vehicle.
A short while later, Lewis, who was also being
followed under the same suspicion, was stopped at the same location
and found to be in possession of a stolen vehicle.
Additional charges are being pursued through
the federal courts.
GO/JFC/NDW 2-15-07
Inc #021400807
For additional
information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at
713-308-3200.
