200 Street Signs Stolen in Rhea County
It might be harder to get around Rhea County these days. The sheriff's office is investigating the theft of 200 street signs.
Rhea County investigators have recovered 160 stolen signs, and believe there's a lot more out there. They say up to eight juveniles could face charges for stealing the signs. For the most part, the signs have been replaced. They cost about $40 each. That means the county has to pay at least $8,000 to replace them.
Investigators say the stolen signs have caused minor problems with ambulances getting around the county. Rhea County Emergency Room Doctor Matthew Tinney says the direction complications could mean life or death.
"I think they'd feel pretty bad if someone's life was at stake as a result of what they were doing as a prank," Tinney said.
We went to the Dayton Fire Department to see if they've had any sign troubles.
"We haven't noticed any street signs missing yet, but we might deal with it tonight on a call," said Firefighter Michael Green.
Investigators are meeting with the teens they suspect took the signs next week to figure out what they'll be charged with and where to track down the rest of the missing signs.
Some of the charges those teens could face are vandalism, destroying county property, and theft.
