Memphis Man Arrested for East Memphis School Burglaries
A 32-year-old man faces felony charges after allegedly using a stolen key card to burglarize a school.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Property Crime
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Police in Memphis have arrested Zachary Sanderson, 32, following a series of burglaries at an East Memphis school. Investigators identified Sanderson through surveillance footage and a lineup after he allegedly used a stolen access card to commit multiple thefts.
Why it matters
The case highlights vulnerabilities in school security systems when physical access credentials are compromised. The suspect's ability to repeatedly enter the facility raises questions about access control protocols and the speed of security responses to triggered alarms.
Zachary Sanderson is charged with four counts of burglary and property theft ranging from $2,500 to $10,000. He is currently awaiting a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 23.
The players
Zachary Sanderson
The 32-year-old suspect is currently in custody facing multiple felony counts for his alleged involvement in the burglaries.
The details
Sanderson allegedly stole an emergency access card from a shed at the school on Sept. 18. Using the card, he reportedly gained entry to the building on two separate days to steal school laptops, a cleaning cart, a speaker, and cafeteria food.
Timeline
Sept. 18, 2026: The suspect allegedly stole an emergency school access card from an exterior shed.
Sept. 18, 2026, 11 p.m.: A suspect used the stolen card to take school laptops and other equipment.
Sept. 19, 2026, 11 a.m.: The suspect returned to steal food from the school cafeteria.
Sept. 21, 2026, 5:15 p.m.: Police apprehended Sanderson following a suspicious person report.
Sept. 23, 2026: Zachary Sanderson is scheduled for a court appearance.
Legal Context
This incident follows a pattern of local property crimes involving unsecured perimeter structures that was analyzed in the 2024 Memphis school security protocol audit. The arrest reflects a broader push by authorities to address recurring security gaps in institutional facilities across the city.
Local residents and school administrators should review site security and ensure that access cards are not stored in accessible areas. The arrest of the suspect aims to alleviate immediate concerns regarding the safety of school property in the East Memphis area.
The takeaway
Securing physical keys and access cards remains a critical priority for institutions to prevent unauthorized entry. Residents can assist local law enforcement by reporting suspicious activity near schools to help maintain the safety of community facilities.
What happens next
Zachary Sanderson is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026.
Further reading
For more on local crime trends, visit our page on Property Crime.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News Channel 3 WREG-TV Memphis.
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