Russell County Sheriff Derek Polston reports the arrest of two individuals after the discovery of an abandoned U-haul truck in a field off Hwy 1611 on Thursday morning, June 3, 2021. Also discovered was a go-cart, a red Honda 4-wheeler and a Husky generator, all of which had been reported as stolen.
Sheriff Polston and deputies recovered the U-haul truck, the Husky generator, and a stolen silver dollar. The generator was later identified as being stolen from a residence on Royce Roy Road in Eli. The go-cart and 4-wheeler were taken to Campbellsville and then transported out of state. Three vehicles involved in the thefts were towed from Eli.
Two individuals were later arrested in connection with the burglary. On Thursday evening, Deputy Nathan Bradshaw served one of the individuals, 35-year-old James Davis of the Webbs Crossroads area of Russell County, with outstanding warrants and charged him with Possession of Methamphetamine. On Friday, Davis along with 38-year-old Thomas Gene Blackburn, Jr. of the Eli community, were charged with Burglary 3rd Degree, Theft by Unlawful Taking under $10,000, and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree.
More local arrests may be forthcoming as well as arrests across state lines.
Sheriff Polston and Deputy Nathan Ginn are heading the investigation. They were assisted by Chief Deputy Jerry Melton and other deputies from the sheriffs office. Law enforcement officers from the state where the 4-wheeler and go-cart were taken have been notified and are working with local officials.
Sheriff Polston reminds Russell County citizens that if you see something suspicious and out of the ordinary, to report it to local dispatch at 270-343-6600. Your call can help catch individuals involved in drug and theft activities. The Drug/Wanted Persons Tipline is 270-343-8116. All callers will remain anonymous.
