HUNTSVILLE, Ala. ― An Alabama man is facing criminal charges after he was caught at a Tennessee Valley Authority electrical substation allegedly trying to steal materials and equipment.
TVA Police investigators were alerted to the Aug. 3 break-in by the security system at the substation in Limestone County, and responded to the scene with officers from Limestone County and the city of Madison.
Officers found Tony Lang, 25, of Valhermoso Springs, Ala., inside the property fence, with his vehicle and various tools. He was charged with criminal trespass, criminal mischief and felony possession of burglary tools. Additional federal charges are pending. Investigators say Lang may have had at least two accomplices who fled the scene.
“TVA is using technology to enhance our law enforcement efforts at sites across the service area,” said David Jolley, TVA vice president for Security & Emergency Management. “This technology, along with our partnerships with local law enforcement, helps us to better protect TVA assets.”
Jolley said the quick response from law enforcement prevented anything from being stolen or any damage to vehicles
David Jolley Vice President for Security & Emergency Management
or buildings at the site. Investigators are looking into whether Lang may have been involved in thefts at TVA properties around Huntsville and Decatur, Ala.
Anyone with additional information on this case, or who sees suspected illegal activity on TVA property, can call the TVA Monitoring and Notification Center at 1-800-548-4005. Callers can remain anonymous.
The Tennessee Valley Authority, a corporation owned by the U.S. government, provides electricity for business customers and distribution utilities that serve 9 million people in parts of seven southeastern states at prices below the national average. TVA, which receives no taxpayer money and makes no profits, also provides flood control, navigation and land management for the Tennessee River system and assists utilities and state and local governments with economic development.
