Memphis, August 15, 2025
News Summary
In Memphis, Anthony Taylor, 23, was arrested for driving a stolen 2020 Dodge Charger and faces multiple charges, including felony vandalism and reckless driving. Authorities found the vehicle reported stolen from Memphis International Airport. Taylor, whose license had been suspended, claimed he bought the car for $5,500 and suggested that his size made it impossible for him to steal cars due to fitting through windows. His bond is set at $20,000, with a court appearance scheduled.
Memphis Man Arrested for Driving Stolen 2020 Dodge Charger Claims He Can’t Steal Cars Due to His Size
Memphis, TN – A 23-year-old man, Anthony Taylor, has been arrested for driving a stolen 2020 Dodge Charger that was taken from the long-term parking at Memphis International Airport. Taylor faces multiple charges, including felony vandalism, theft of property, and reckless driving.
According to police reports, Taylor was apprehended after authorities identified the vehicle, which had been reported stolen in July, when its owner returned from a work trip. The arrest occured on August 13, when police and FBI agents discovered a dark gray Dodge Charger parked on Deb Drive, displaying a Mississippi license plate that was actually registered to an unrelated vehicle.
Through the investigation, officers confirmed the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) was associated with the stolen Charger. Police tracked Taylor, who was dressed in black, as he got into the car and drove at speeds exceeding 100 mph. They lost sight of the vehicle when it sped southbound from Interstate 40 onto Watkins Avenue.
Later, the car was found parked on Watkins Avenue, south of Chelsea, after it had been involved in an accident. Taylor was located near the back of the vehicle and taken into custody. He reportedly refused to speak with investigators about the situation. Officers noted that Taylor appeared to flee the area upon noticing them checking the VIN.
When questioned about the vehicle, Taylor stated he had purchased the car for $5,500. However, it was revealed that his driver’s license had been suspended since April 7 due to a failure to file insurance. In addition to the theft charge, Taylor is facing charges for driving with a suspended license, violation of vehicle registration, and drag racing.
As of now, Taylor’s bond has been set at $20,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court on August 15, 2025.
Supporting Details
The incident highlights a series of challenges faced by police in dealing with stolen vehicles and reckless driving. Taylor’s unusual claim that he cannot steal cars due to his size raises questions about the mindset of individuals involved in vehicle theft.
The stolen vehicle was part of a broader pattern of car thefts reported at the Memphis International Airport, which has seen an increase in such incidents over the past year. Investigators believe that both organized crime and individual opportunists are responsible.
Background Context
The 2020 Dodge Charger is a popular vehicle, often targeted for theft due to its desirability and performance features. The Memphis community has expressed concerns about rising crime rates, particularly related to vehicle theft and reckless driving. Law enforcement agencies are continuously working to address these issues through awareness campaigns and enhanced patrol strategies.
FAQ
What charges was Anthony Taylor facing?
Anthony Taylor was charged with driving while his license was suspended, felony vandalism, theft of property, violation of vehicle registration, reckless driving, and drag racing.
How did police identify the stolen Dodge Charger?
The police and FBI agents identified the vehicle parked with a Mississippi license plate that was registered to an unrelated vehicle. They then confirmed the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matched the stolen car.
What was Taylor’s explanation for driving the stolen vehicle?
Taylor stated he bought the car for $5,500 and claimed he was too big to steal vehicles, suggesting that his size prevented him from fitting through a car window.
When is Anthony Taylor’s court appearance?
Taylor is scheduled to appear in court on August 15, 2025.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | Anthony Taylor |
| Age | 23 |
| Charges | Driving with a suspended license, felony vandalism, theft of property, violation of vehicle registration, reckless driving, drag racing |
| Date of Incident | August 13, 2025 |
| Stolen Vehicle | 2020 Dodge Charger |
| Purchasing claim by Taylor | $5,500 |
| Bond Amount | $20,000 |
| Court Appearance Date | August 15, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- WREG: MPD Captures Accused Suspect in Theft
- Google Search: MPD Capture Theft Charges
- Fox13 Memphis: Woman Has Car Stolen
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Car Theft
- Action News 5: Memphis Woman’s Car Stolen
- Google News: Memphis Car Theft
- Hoodline: Memphis Police Seek Community Aid
- Google Scholar: Auto Theft Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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