Two men are behind bars in the alleged theft of two ATVs from a deer camp in Claiborne County.

On the afternoon of November 6 at around 2:20 p.m., deputies were dispatched to a reported break-in at Cypress Spring Deer Camp, located at 12048 Rodney Road.

Upon arrival, Sheriff Edward Goods and his deputies were met by Charlie Howard, an employee at the camp. Howard then informed them that two side-by-side ATVs valued over $41,000 were missing. Howard noticed their absence as well as an attempted theft of a 14-foot boat, which prompted him to contact authorities.

As the investigation unfolded, it became apparent that a recently terminated employee of the deer camp was a person of interest. The individual’s termination just a few days prior, led authorities to suspect his involvement in the theft due to his knowledge of the camp’s layout and operations.

Video footage and additional evidence were examined, and Wildlife and Fisheries Agent Terry Miles was enlisted to patrol the area later that evening.

During his patrol, Agent Miles observed a suspicious vehicle leaving the deer camp and decided to conduct a traffic stop. He promptly called for assistance from the Sheriff’s Department.
As suspects William Strong and Lucas Smith were questioned during the ensuing investigation, a confession was obtained regarding the theft of the two side-by-side ATVs that had gone missing the previous day. They were subsequently charged with Criminal Trespass and Grand Larceny.

An arrest warrant has been issued for a third suspect, Kaitlyn Danella Jones in connection with this case.

Sheriff Goods said he would like to give special thanks to Sergeant Mitch Hoskins and Agent Terry Myles in the recovery of the ATVs that have since been returned to the owner, Mr. William Bradley Clark.