Ongoing vandalism and theft investigation in Franklin State Forest
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MARION COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Franklin State Forest was forced to close after a vandalism and theft incident occurred.
At some point between the dates of July 10, 2024, and July 14, 2024, five Tennessee Division of Forestry (TDF) dozers, a dozer transport truck, and trailer were vandalized.
Equipment was also stolen from these vehicles.
At least $1 million in damages occurred from this incident.
TDF closed the forest to the public immediately following the incident.
During the investigation, the Agricultural Crime Unit (ACU) located three individuals trespassing.
These individuals attempted to evade law enforcement, but were later apprehended.
They now face criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), Tennessee Bureau of Investigations (TBI), and the ACU are still conducting an ongoing investigation.
A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrests and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the theft and vandalism.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact ACU by phone at (844) 242-7463, or by email, agriculture.crime@tn.gov.
