TRAVERSE CITY -- Several men suspected of stealing scrap metal in multiple counties face criminal charges.
Grand Traverse sheriff's deputies investigated a complaint made by Ominex Energy, which owns an oil well site off Ranch Rudolph Road.
A company official reported suspicious activity and the theft of scrap metal, a motor and other items from the site.
A company official went to Traverse Bay Recycling and Supply on Blair Townhall Road and allegedly found some of the stolen property.
The company's owners allegedly wouldn't cooperate with investigators, so deputies obtained a search warrant for the company's records.
Two suspects were identified through the warrant, and two additional suspects later were identified.
They are suspected of stealing about $10,000 worth of property from the oil field site.
At least two of the suspects also are suspected of stealing scrap metal from several locations in Benzie County.
Grand Traverse deputies are seeking charges against the four men, and information has been sent to Benzie County officials for investigation.
