Victims fight to keep suspected car thief in jail

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Nearly two weeks after a vintage 1950s Chevy was stolen from a garage in East Memphis, the owners went to court to prevent the teenage suspect’s bond from being reduced.

Carmine Boyd, 18, was locked up on a $50,000 bond after he was charged with several counts of theft, unlawful possession of a weapon, and driving without a license. He was still listed in the jail as of Monday afternoon.

Bryson Lochemes and his husband hired their own attorneys to attend Boyd’s bond hearing on Monday. Lochemes said they wanted Boyd’s bond increased, but their main objective was to make sure he didn’t get out.

“We were represented by the Spence firm, and our attorneys spoke to Carmine’s attorney, and Carmine decided to waive his right to a bond hearing. I guess he didn’t want to face us since we were all there and decided to stay in jail and keep his current bond,” said Lochemes.

Police said Boyd was caught on camera stealing the 1953 Chevrolet and an Alumni car trailer from a gated garage off Poplar. The antique car, valued at around $40,000, was recovered a day later behind a warehouse in Binghampton, but the trailer is still missing.

According to an affidavit of complaint, Boyd was driving a stolen 1996 Chevy pickup and carrying a loaded gun in his waistband when he was arrested. The truck was reported stolen from Marshall County, and Boyd is facing additional charges there.

Lochemes hopes their actions in court will benefit other victims of crime.

“When other people get their cars stolen, it really affects their lives, and they don’t have the means to get an attorney to represent themselves, and hopefully, this will help someone else out,” Lochemes said. “Maybe criminals will think twice about stealing from people. That there are repercussions for their crimes.”

If you have seen the stolen trailer or know where it is, call CrimeStoppers at (901)528-CASH.

Boyd is scheduled to appear in court for the case on July 23rd.

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