Local wrecker service raided

Local wrecker service raided

Weapons, drugs seized, owner arrested

By John Rech

news@theeveningtimes.com West Memphis police raided a wrecker service in the city seizing guns and drugs. It was not the first go-round between the cops and Harold’s Towing & Recovery, located at 701 S.

Woods St. A search of the premises netted drugs, including 21 grams of meth, and mushrooms. Police swept up a cache of guns and body armor as well.

Investigators found paraphernalia pointing to personal use and the company owner Harold Beasley was arrested for that along with drugs found in a big rig towed to the lot.

“He had some paraphernalia also, so we are under the impression that he does use,” said Langston.

In all Beasley faces six felonies. The bad news may get worse for the wrecker operator who has been convicted before. The WMPD had made it a habit to bring federal charges on gun and drug cases. The narcotics division has officers federally deputized.

“We are looking at indicting him federally,” said Langston. “Our state courts are overwhelmed and they get significant time, federally. That’s why we do it every case we can.”

Federal cases carry heavi- er sentences.

Because of the previous conviction Harold’s towing had been removed from the city wrecker rotation to help clear accidents and tow abandoned vehicles.

“We had arrested Harold Beasley before,” said Langston. “A few years ago we seized a wrecker.

So he has not been on our wrecker rotation.“

Harold Beasley

Harold’s Towing & Recovery was the scene of a raid by West Memphis Police. Guns, drugs and other contraband were recovered at the South Woods business, and owner Harold Beasley (left) was arrested on a number of charges.

Photo by Ralph Hardin