DTF informant sought after absconding with cash, equipment

By Kathy Helms-Hughes
STAR STAFF
khughes@starhq.com

   The First Judicial District Drug Task Force was still searching Thursday evening for a former DTF confidential informant who drove away Tuesday with $4,000 in marked bills and $7,100 in surveillance equipment to be used during a "buy-bust."
   "We followed up on some leads, but most of the leads have not panned out," DTF Director Kenneth Phillips said.
   A warrant charging David Clark, 25, 2245 Elizabethton Hwy., Johnson City, with theft over $10,000 has been issued, according to Phillips. When found, Clark, who was on probation, will be looking at prison time, he said.
   On Tuesday, Clark told agents he had arranged a narcotics purchase. He was outfitted with DTF surveillance equipment and given $4,000 in marked DTF currency.
   Clark left to make the buy with two cars of agents tailing. Agents lost sight of Clark, however, when a slow-moving vehicle pulled out in front of them and Clark sped away.
   Phillips said Clark's vehicle was recovered Wednesday, along with a repeater worth about $5,000.
   Anyone having information is asked to contact DTF at 928-1073 or Director Phillips at 791-3101. All information is confidential.