Memphis, August 30, 2025

News Summary

A couple from Memphis has been arrested on charges of theft and forgery after allegedly stealing copper from a boat. John Waldrop faces burglary charges, while his wife Amber Waldrop was apprehended for an existing forgery warrant. The MPD Harbor patrol is actively ensuring safety along local waterways while addressing concerns about potential discrepancies in crime statistics reporting. State lawmakers are now considering legislation to ensure proper reporting practices within the police department.

Memphis

A Memphis couple has been arrested on theft and forgery charges after an incident involving the alleged theft of copper from a boat on August 22, 2025. John Waldrop, 39, faces burglary charges for his actions in the 1300 block of Second Avenue. Following his arrest, his wife Amber Waldrop, 41, who was wanted in Arkansas for a forgery warrant, was also apprehended.

The Memphis Police Department (MPD) Harbor patrol, responsible for ensuring safety along the Mississippi River and its surrounding areas, took the lead in this case. Their efforts include daily operations aimed at deterring crime and maintaining order along regional waterways.

In 2025, the Harbor patrol has successfully made two felony arrests, issued 48 citations, executed four rescues, provided five assists to boaters in distress, and conducted 28 searches. These statistics highlight the patrol’s dedication to public safety and crime prevention.

In the backdrop of these arrests, an audit request from two state lawmakers has raised concerns about the integrity of the MPD’s crime statistics reporting. Allegations suggest that the MPD may be downgrading serious crimes, such as felony burglaries, to lesser misdemeanors for the sake of presenting improved crime numbers.

Chief CJ Davis of the MPD has publicly denied any manipulation of crime data, firmly stating that the department adheres to strict reporting standards. He emphasized the importance of focusing on reducing crime and building public trust over merely presenting favorable statistics.

In response to these allegations, state lawmakers are deliberating on potential legislation to establish a “Duty to Report” requirement for data entry personnel, aimed at preventing improper changes in crime classification.

Key Points of the Incident

• John Waldrop, 39, arrested for burglary of copper from a boat.
• Amber Waldrop, 41, arrested on an outstanding forgery warrant from Arkansas.
• Incident occurred in Memphis at the 1300 block of Second Avenue.
• MPD Harbor patrol noted to have performed several law enforcement and safety activities in 2025.
• Concerns raised regarding the accuracy of MPD crime statistics reporting.
• State lawmakers considering new legislation to enhance reporting integrity.

Background

Crime statistics reporting within law enforcement agencies is critical for understanding and addressing public safety issues. Recent scrutiny on the MPD has stemmed from concerns about transparency and accountability, leading to calls for more rigorous oversight in reporting standards.

As crime data plays a crucial role in resource allocation and community safety measures, maintaining accurate records is of utmost importance for fostering trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Conclusion

The recent arrests of the Waldrop couple underscore ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating theft and ensuring public safety. With additional scrutiny regarding crime reporting practices, the MPD is under pressure to maintain the integrity of its statistics while fulfilling its duty to protect the community.

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Additional Resources

• WREG: Multiple Masked Armed Men Wanted in Robbery of Armored Truck
• Action News 5: State Lawmakers Want Audit to Prove Crime is Down in Memphis
• Commercial Appeal: Shelby County Official Indicted in Memphis Police Audit
• Fox 13 Memphis: Memphis Man Recognizes Home Burglar on FOX13 Report
• WREG: TN Lawmaker Calls for Audit of Memphis Police Crime Data
• Wikipedia: Memphis
• Google Search: Memphis
• Google Scholar: Memphis Crime Statistics
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis
• Google News: Memphis

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.