Wanda English Burnett, Editor

While parents, grandparents and friends were attending a graduation ceremony at the Little Blessing Preschool (Versailles Church of Christ) on Saturday, May 13, vehicles in the parking lot were being burglarized.

Captain David Pippin of the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department, called it “smash and grab” robberies. He said the vandals, smashed out the windows of two vehicles, taking purses inside. He said there was an undisclosed amount of cash and credit cards stolen.

Also, close to the same time, Captain Pippin said a robbery took place at the Family Dollar Store, across the highway from the preschool. He noted that while the store was open for business, someone kicked in the office door and stole a purse.

He says police do not know if the two burglaries are related. If anyone saw anything suspicious or has information on either robbery, contact the sheriff’s department at 689-5555 or 689-5558.

Milan Police reported that on Sunday, May 14 the Milan Town Park was vandalized. Interim Marshal Gary Skaggs said the vandals damaged the restrooms in the park and destroyed 18 of the 29 light poles that line the half mile walking trail in the park. He noted that most of the light poles were donated by various businesses and individual citizens of Milan, with many of them being in memory of family and friends. The estimated damage is in excess of $10,000.

The Milan Town Board is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Anyone with information should contact the marshal at 654-2211 or contact the Ripley County Communication Center at 689-5555.