The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the recent theft of two ATVs and other items after someone apparently used a drill to break into two sheds in the 8900 block of Hwy. EE in Dittmer. The incident occurred sometime between July 26 and July 29, a report said.
The victim told authorities his father had been at the property on July 26 and found nothing amiss. When he stopped by again three days later, however, he found the lock to one shed had been “drilled out,” and the other shed appeared to have been forced open with a crowbar. Many items were missing.
Among the stole items were a 2001 Honda ATV; a 1989 Kawasaki ATV; a 30-gallon compressor; a tool box containing air tools and other items; approximately 20 gallons of fuel; a shop vacuum; a hydraulic transmission jack; a portable band saw; an extension ladder; a handmade antique farm wagon; and various other tools and equipment. In addition, gas was siphoned out of a tractor in one of the sheds. The estimated value of the stolen items was $14,500.
As of Aug. 10, the items had not been found, no arrests had been made and the investigation continued, Cpl. Matthew Moore said.