09/24/2026
SOUTHMAYD POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 23, 2026
Contact: Chief Jeff Laughlin
Address: 304 McElroy Street, Southmayd, TX 76268
Phone: (903) 868-1212
Email: [email protected]
Website: southmaydtx.com/southmayd-police-department
ARREST FOR ENGAGING IN ORGANIZED CRIMINAL ACTIVITY – BURGLARY OF A BUILDING
On September 23, 2026, at approximately 1540 hours, Officer Scott Barrett and Officer Tyler Shipman of the Southmayd Police Department were dispatched to the 12000 block of FM 902 in the City of Dorchester, Grayson County, Texas, in reference to suspicious activity.
Witnesses reported seeing a female leaving a gated property. Witnesses also observed a light-colored Ford Explorer or Ford Expedition backed into the driveway near the gate, with a white male standing at the rear of the vehicle with the rear hatch open.
Upon arrival, Officer Barrett located a female walking eastbound on FM 902. The female was identified as Sarah Sinclair. During the initial contact, officers observed that Sinclair appeared to have grease and dirt on her clothing and hands.
Officer Barrett subsequently learned that Sinclair had an outstanding parole violation warrant issued through the Texas Department of Pardon and Parole. Sinclair was placed under arrest on the confirmed warrant.
While investigating the property, Officer Shipman discovered that a combination lock securing the property gate had been cut. Officers also located several types of copper wire lying on the ground near the entrance to the property. The caretaker of the property arrived and confirmed that multiple items were missing from the property. Lt. Michael Aguirre also reported having observed Sinclair walking along FM 902 in the area earlier in the day.
Following the initial investigation, Officer Barrett transported Sinclair to the Southmayd Police Department for an interview. During an interview conducted by Chief Jeff Laughlin, Officers obtained information indicating that Sinclair, Jeffery Robichaud, and Joseph Hall had allegedly been on the property throughout the night before and had removed multiple items from the property.
Investigators further learned that Sinclair was allegedly dropped off at the property again later in the day to survey the area during daylight hours and determine whether additional items of value remained.
The property involved is a large location containing multiple buildings. Investigators determined that several areas of the property had been entered and searched and that multiple items of value were stolen.
During the investigation, Chief Laughlin also developed information indicating that Sinclair, Robichaud, and Hall were involved in a previous large-scale copper theft from a new water well being constructed by the City of Dorchester. That theft resulted in more than $20,000 in reported theft and damage.
Based on information developed during the investigation, including witness statements, officer observations, the condition of the property, interviews, and information regarding the other suspects and vehicle involved, Sarah Sinclair was charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity – Burglary of a Building, in addition to the outstanding parole violation warrant and transported to the Grayson County Jail.
Investigators determined that Jeffery Robichaud and Joseph Hall had left the area prior to officers' arrival. Arrest warrants were subsequently obtained for both Robichaud and Hall for Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity – Burglary of a Building. The warrants have been entered into the Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC).
Both subjects currently have outstanding warrants related to this investigation. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of either subject is encouraged to contact the Southmayd Police Department or their local law enforcement agency. Do not attempt to apprehend or contact either subject yourself.
The Southmayd Police Department would like to recognize the teamwork and dedication demonstrated by the officers involved in this investigation.
Officers remained beyond their scheduled shift times to ensure the investigation was thoroughly completed, evidence was documented, interviews were conducted, and the necessary warrants were obtained and entered.
The cooperation and determination demonstrated by the Southmayd Police Department personnel involved in this case are a direct reflection of the Department's commitment to investigating criminal activity and protecting the communities we serve.
The Southmayd Police Department would also like to thank the witnesses and property caretaker who provided information and assistance during the investigation.
