The NOPD is seeking assistance from the public in locating Derrick Pickens (DOB: 12-22-1977), who is wanted in connection with two separate theft incidents.

The first incident occurred on Tuesday, April 3, 2018, in the 800 block of Newton Street. The victim told police he returned to his business at or around 2 p.m. and observed the side door of the business had been forced open and multiple tools had been stolen. The second incident occurred on Thursday, (April 12) at or around 3 p.m. The victim observed the front door of the business appeared to be pried open and several tools were missing from the interior of the business.

During the investigation, Pickens was developed as the subject who was in possession of the stolen items. The victim was advised by a source that Pickens was attempting to sell the items. Pickens then called the victim to set up a meeting to arrange a possible sale of hand tools. During the meeting, the victim verified several hand tools that belonged to him. The victim arranged for Pickens to load the tools into his truck and travel to his residence to receive the payment for the tools, at which time the victim advised NOPD officers of the interaction.

Upon arrival to the victim’s residence, Fourth District officers met with Pickens, at which time the subject ignored the officers’ commands and fled the location on foot. Pickens is known to flee from officers when he is approached. He also has open item warrants and an active buccal swab search warrant from detectives in the Sixth District.

Anyone with information regarding the subject’s whereabouts is asked to contact Fourth District detectives at 504-658-6040. Citizens with information that can help solve crimes are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.