The White County Sheriff’s Office has made arrests in connection with oil field thefts and also the burglary at Union Ridge Cemetery. Sheriff Doug Maier issued a release Friday morning saying a Crime Stoppers tip led the investigation into the theft at Union Ridge to New Haven in Gallatin County. The stolen John Deere Gator was located at 424 Market Street there. 38 year old Joseph Webb and 25 year old Samantha Wheatley were subsequently arrested for possession of stolen property by Gallatin County Sheriff Shannon Bradley. The utility vehicle, along with a chainsaw, hedge trimmer, leaf blower, weed eater and air compressor were all recovered at two locations in New Haven. Officials also found several oil field valves they believe were stolen from White County.
Webb and Wheatley were taken to the White County Jail and interviewed. Based on their statements, Maier says both have been charged with two counts of theft and criminal damage in reference to the oil field thefts. Those charges are in addition to a count of burglary and criminal damage for their alleged roles in the Union Ridge Cemetery incident.
States Attorney Denton Aud has authorized those charges and bond has been set at $100,000 on each. Maier singled out Sergeant Craig Poole for his exemplary efforts and also thanked Sheriff Bradley for his assistance.
