BY RACHEL DOVE
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

WARFIELD — Two would-be thieves were caught Sept. 7 loading up the decorative paving stones surrounding the Warfield Boat Ramp sign.

Martin County Deputy Chris Kidd responded to a report of someone attempting to steal the brick, which is the property of the City of Warfield. Upon arrival, the deputy discovered Patricia Adkins, 41, of Warfield, and Austin Stanley, 20, of Beauty, loading the paving stones into their vehicle.

Kidd questioned the duo about the purpose of their actions, to which Adkins replied, “I want them for my house.”

Stanley gave the same story, saying he was helping the female load them to use at her residence.

The two were charged with theft by unlawful taking under $500 and given Oct. 18 court dates.

Warfield Mayor Ronald Workman commented on the attempted theft, saying when he first saw the couple moving the pavers around, he thought they were searching for Harvest Festival clues.

“I had no idea they were trying to steal the brick pavers around the boat sign until I witnessed them loading them up,” said the mayor. “That’s when we called the sheriff’s department.”

Workman said it’s a sad day when someone stoops to stealing items purchased to add a nice touch to the town. He stated that whether the cost was a few dollars or $1,000, “a theft is a theft.”

“Thieves have to be held responsible for their crime, or they will only continue the pattern and move on to stealing other things that catch their eye,” remarked Workman. “I’m one of those folks who would help anyone in need, but I won’t tolerate a thief. Thankfully the deputy showed up and caught them before they left the scene.”