Pinestraw thief busted in G’stadt

GLUCKSTADT — Surveillance cameras from private businesses were instrumental in catching a Georgia pine straw thief here last week.

The man, Wyderius Prather, 21, of Hogansville, Georgia, was arrested and charged with petit larceny, according to GPD Lt. Stephen Tucker.

Tucker said security cameras at Pinestraw of Mississippi and nearby businesses on Lone Wolf Drive were instrumental in catching Prather.

“This was possible because of the cooperation of business owners who let us use their cameras during the investigation,” Tucker said. “We just want people to know that they do work and can benefit surrounding businesses as well.”

According to GPD Investigator Rob Parker, Pine Straw of Mississippi first reported that someone had stolen several rolls of pine straw from their business around 9 a.m. on Friday, July 12.

Parker said he was able to get the man’s phone number and convinced Prather to return to the business later that afternoon to settle the dispute.

“He said he was just north of Canton and was headed to job before heading to Alabama and then on to Georgia,” Parker said. “I convinced him to come back to the business.”

Once back at the business, around 3 p.m. that same day, Parker said officers were able to make an arrest.

Pinestraw of Mississippi thanked GPD on social media for their “swift action and dedication” in bringing Prather in.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Gluckstadt Police Department for their invaluable support and commitment to protecting our business community,” their post reads in part. “This incident highlights the importance of working with trusted local businesses. Support local, stay safe, and thank you once again to the Gluckstadt Police Department.”

Police Chief Barry Hale, who was out of town attending training in Oxford at the time of the incident, said, “I’m very proud of the men and women at the Gluckstadt Police Department for their incredible work ethic and their unwavering dedication to keeping everyone in our community safe.”