Memphis Police Arrested Thirteen in Chicken Theft
Authorities recovered $250,000 in stolen chicken and seized narcotics and firearms during a hotel raid.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Property Crime
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Memphis law enforcement officers arrested 13 individuals caught unloading $250,000 worth of stolen chicken at an Economy Inn on Lamar Avenue. The operation also resulted in the recovery of fentanyl, cocaine, and three handguns.
Why it matters
The bust occurred during a broader Memphis Safe Task Force enforcement sweep that resulted in 49 total arrests. This operation highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to disrupt coordinated theft and drug trafficking rings in the city.
Javunte Johnson is being held on a $280,000 bond, while Jessie Moore faces a $200,000 bond. Other suspects, including Quantrivious Shavers, face charges related to theft and possession of controlled substances.
The players
Javunte Johnson
He is one of the primary suspects charged with theft, aggravated robbery, and being a felon in possession of a handgun.
Memphis Safe Task Force
This local task force is responsible for conducting coordinated enforcement sweeps to address crime in the Memphis area.
Quantrivious Shavers
He is a suspect arrested at the scene who now faces charges of theft and possession of fentanyl with intent to sell.
Samuel Jackson
He is an arrested individual facing criminal charges for theft and possession of cocaine with intent to sell.
Jessie Moore
He is a suspect in the case currently facing a charge for being a felon in possession of a handgun.
The details
Task force members apprehended the 13 suspects after they attempted to flee the scene at the Economy Inn while unloading pallets from an 18-wheeler. Charges filed against the group include theft, aggravated robbery, and multiple counts of possession with intent to sell.
Timeline
September 15, 2026: Police discovered the stolen goods and arrested 13 individuals.
2021: Javunte Johnson previously pleaded guilty to controlled substance possession.
Legal Context
This bust follows the operational pattern of the Memphis Safe Task Force enforcement sweeps, which target high-volume criminal activity to improve public safety. Such operations are increasingly common as local authorities seek to address organized property crimes alongside illicit drug trades.
Residents may see an increased law enforcement presence as the Memphis Safe Task Force continues its enforcement sweeps across the city. The recovery of weapons and narcotics from a public hotel underscores the importance of reporting suspicious activity to local authorities.
The takeaway
Large-scale property thefts are often linked to broader criminal networks involved in drug and weapon distribution. Authorities rely on coordinated task force efforts to dismantle these operations and recover significant assets.
Further reading
For more information on trends in the area, visit Property Crime.
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