Two men are facing serious charges after being accused of stealing nearly $278,000 worth of construction materials from a business in Polk County, Florida.
The theft involved large amounts of supplies, and deputies say it was part of an organized plan.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported that 42-year-old Roney Evans from Mulberry and 30-year-old Christopher Morris from Lakeland were arrested for the theft.
Authorities believe the pair worked together to take items like lumber, fencing, and other construction materials over some time.
The investigation began after a local business reported missing materials from its storage yard. Deputies reviewed surveillance footage and noticed repeated visits from the suspects’ vehicles. After gathering more evidence, they were able to trace the materials back to Evans and Morris.
Detectives say the stolen items were valued at around $278,000. Many of these materials were later found either stored or resold elsewhere. Investigators believe the thefts started months ago and continued until recently.
Both men are now facing charges that include grand theft and dealing in stolen property. The sheriff’s office also mentioned that one of the suspects has a prior criminal history.
The case highlights how construction businesses are increasingly being targeted for high-value materials. Law enforcement officers say this is not the first such theft they’ve seen in the area and urged companies to take extra precautions.
Deputies are still investigating whether anyone else was involved and if more stolen materials may be recovered.