Copper theft victim tracks down suspect

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) -  

A suspected metal thief is behind bars, and police said the victim helped put him there.

Lee Laffitte said he noticed copper was stolen from his home and was determined to get in back.

"So I knew they were only doing something to get a few dollars. So they needed the money right away. So in order to catch them I went right back up there where I am thinking they are going to sell it… at the closest place,” said Laffitte.

Laffitte said he went to Wise Recycling center on Halls Mill, just a  around the corner from his home. He was told the seller just left.

 Laffitte said he then tracked down the suspect, held him at gunpoint and called the police.

“I pursued to stop them. There was no way I was going to let them go. And I let them know, give me the keys...if you don't give me the keys we can go right now,” said Laffitte.

The police arrested 28-year-old Obadiah Pettaway for criminal mischief. Through their investigation they also say Pettaway is to blame for several car thefts in the area.

“We actually were able to determine that he is responsible for a number of vehicle burglaries also in that area which goes all the way back to November of 2011,” said Cpl. Chris Levy.

Pettaway is charged with six counts of breaking and entering a vehicle, criminal mischief first degree and three outstanding warrants. Laffitte, got his copper back.