Covington, TN – A suspect involved in a series of early-morning auto burglaries in the Town Creek area of Covington has been identified, apprehended, and charged, thanks to the efforts of diligent detectives and critical assistance from community surveillance footage.
In the early morning hours of Friday, April 11, 2025, officers with the Covington Police Department responded to two reports of auto burglaries in the Town Creek neighborhood. Both vehicles had been left unlocked overnight, and while no items were immediately reported missing, the vehicles had clearly been rummaged through, prompting a swift law enforcement response.
Detectives reviewed home security footage provided by nearby residents, which captured clear images of the suspects and the vehicle used during the crimes. The images were released to the public, generating valuable leads. Through the course of their investigation, detectives discovered that the vehicle used in the burglaries had been stolen out of Lauderdale County, and the individuals involved had driven to Covington specifically to commit these offenses.
The investigation led to the identification and arrest of Kwinton Purifoy, age 18, of Ripley, TN. Purifoy was located and apprehended in Ripley, where he admitted his involvement in the Covington burglaries. He is now facing a series of charges:
- Criminal Trespass
- Burglary (Covington)
- Multiple Felony Charges (Lauderdale County)
Purifoy is currently being held at the Lauderdale County Jail on a $40,000 bond. He is expected to face additional charges in Tipton County once proceedings in Lauderdale County conclude.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, with additional suspects expected to be identified and charged. Covington Police detectives are continuing to work closely with their counterparts in Lauderdale County to bring the case to full resolution.
Chief Donna Turner praised the collaborative effort and community involvement that led to this arrest.
“Our Detectives and Analysts worked closely with the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office detectives in solving these crimes. The suspect will face charges in both counties for their choices to break the law,” said Chief Turner. “This is a great example of home security cameras being used to help us help our citizens protect their community.”
In light of this incident, Covington Police are strongly urging all residents to lock their vehicles and remove valuables, particularly overnight. Crimes of opportunity, such as these auto burglaries, often occur when cars are left unlocked or personal property is visible inside.
Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to contact the Covington Police Department Investigations Division at (901) 475-1261 or send a message via Facebook Messenger to the department’s official page. All information can remain confidential.
Stay informed and stay vigilant. Together, we can keep Covington safe.
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