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1 arrested, 1 sought in connection with Tyler Salvation Army red kettle theft

Jimmie Earl Gamble Sr., 60, of Tyler, was on parole and has a lengthy criminal history, according to the Tyler Police Department.
Credit: Tyler Police Department

TYLER, Texas — The Tyler Police Department has arrested one of two suspects involved in the alleged theft of a Salvation Army red kettle on December 3.

According to the TPD, officers arrested Jimmie Earl Gamble Sr., 60, of Tyler, who was the "get-away driver" when the kettle was stolen from in front of Walmart, located at 450 South Southeast Loop 323.

Officials say an unknown suspect swiped the kettle around 6:30 p.m. and jumped into a "get-away vehicle" driven by Gamble.

The Tyler Police Department released a surveillance video that appears to show the subject snatch the kettle and run off with it.

A Walmart customer witnessed the crime, followed Gamble's vehicle and obtained a license plate number, according to the TPD.

Authorities say Gamble stopped when he realized the duo was being followed by the witness. The unknown suspect got out of the vehicle and struck the windshield of the witness vehicle with an object. Officials say Gamble then drove away from the scene.

RELATED: Bell ringer back on post after having Salvation Army kettle stolen night before

The TPD reports they located part of the Salvation Army kettle stand in the rear of Gamble's vehicle during the investigation. 

A warrant was issued for Gamble's arrest and his bond was set at $30,000. Prior to this incident, Gamble was on parole and police say he has a lengthy criminal history.

Investigators continue to seek the identity of the second suspect involved in the crime. Anyone with information about this suspect is urged to contact the Detective Tekell, at (903) 531-1046, or Crimestoppers at (903) 597-CUFF (903-597-2833). Crimestoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest and charges filed against the suspects in this case.

RELATED: GIVING BACK: Help the Salvation Army of Tyler reach their $400,000 goal

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