Duo Arrested After Stolen Lumber Uncovers Prior Theft

LUBBOCK, TX — A Lubbock Police officer went on a brief chase Tuesday after two individuals, previously connected to a theft and credit card abuse case at Cavender's Western Outfitter, stole lumber from an apartment complex in west Lubbock.

According to court documents, on April 8, a Lubbock Police officer spotted a truck connected to a recent theft and credit card abuse case. The officer observed the truck driving west on 50th Street, with lumber hanging over the tailgate, and attempted to follow it.

When the officer activated his patrol lights, the driver sped through several apartment complex parking lots in an attempt to flee. The pursuit continued at high speeds before the truck stopped in a parking lot in the 5400 block of Chicago Avenue.

The driver, identified as Cody Colby, 32, was acting aggressively when the officer approached the truck and was placed in handcuffs after being told to exit. According to documents, Colby’s passenger, Branda Brown, 33, mentioned that she possibly had an outstanding warrant.

Shortly after, a male witness reported that the lumber in the truck was stolen from the Fountain Apartments. The total value of the lumber was $302.14. Brown later admitted she was with Colby when the lumber was taken without consent.

During a search of the truck, investigators found a notepad with identifying information linked to multiple victims, as well as a metal cylinder containing marijuana. Colby and Brown denied knowledge of these items.

Further investigation revealed that the boots and sunglasses Colby had on were related to a credit card theft at Cavender’s Western Outfitters. The stolen property was seized, and Colby and Brown were arrested and transported to the Lubbock County Detention Center.

Cody Colby was charged with Fraudulent Use of Identifying Information, Theft of $100<$750, Possession of Marijuana <2 oz, Unlicensed Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and Theft of a Firearm, although court documents did not state anything about a firearm in the incident. His total bond is set at $16,000.

Branda Brown was charged with Fraudulent Use of Identifying Information, Theft of $100<$750, and Possession of Marijuana <2 oz. As of April 9, Brown has posted bail and has been released.