Shreveport, LA – Shreveport police have issued a felony warrant for a man accused of stealing a cell phone left behind at a local restaurant and using it to access and manipulate the victim’s financial accounts.
The incident occurred on May 1, 2025, at Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar on Youree Drive. According to investigators, a customer inadvertently left their mobile phone at the establishment. Shortly thereafter, unauthorized activity was detected on the victim’s Apple Pay and banking accounts.
Detectives identified the suspect as Joseph Crooks. Authorities allege that Crooks not only took the victim’s phone but also used his own device to reset account credentials tied to the stolen phone. This allowed him to bypass security measures and gain access to sensitive financial information, which was then reportedly used to transfer or withdraw funds.
Following a review of surveillance footage, digital forensic analysis, and account activity logs, the Shreveport Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit secured a felony theft warrant for Crooks on May 8. As of May 9, he had not been taken into custody.
Investigators are asking anyone with knowledge of Crooks’ whereabouts to contact the Shreveport Police Department at 318-673-7300. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Caddo Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373.
The case remains under active investigation, and further charges could be considered depending on the results of ongoing inquiries.