Both Suspects Arrested in Attempted ATM Theft

TYLER — The Smith County Sheriff’s Office says both suspects have now been captured in Thursday’s attempted ATM theft. The first suspect, who was taken into custody early Thursday morning, is Steven Prior, 35. The second suspect is Winston Barnes, 25. Barnes was arrested just before 5:00 Thursday morning at a residence at 506 Ferguson Street in Lindale. He was wanted on three warrants: unlawful use of a criminal instrument – third degree felony; theft of property – less than $200,000 (ATM) – second degree felony; and evading arrest – class A misdemeanor. According to a news release, the SCSO wants to thank the Tyler PD, Lindale PD, East Texas Auto Theft Task Force and Smith County CID and Patrol for doing an outstanding job. The SCSO expects other burglaries to be cleared from this investigation.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, just before 2:45 yesterday morning, officials received a 911 call from an individual who reported observing two men using what appeared to be a cutting torch on the outdoor ATM at the Kelly Federal Credit Union on Highway 31 West. Multiple Smith County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the call and both men fled. Assistance was requested from the Tyler Police Department, and three units responded. Officials say during the search, Prior was found hiding behind a nearby business and was arrested. Authorities conducted an initial two-hour search for Barnes before calling off that hunt and eventually