SALINE COUNTY, Ark. – Officials are offering a reward after reports of vandalism at the site of a landmark’s restoration in Saline County.
Mobley Contractors and Saline County officials announced Friday that a $5,500 reward was being offered for information leading to arrest and conviction after two pieces of construction equipment were damaged at the site of the Old River Bridge construction site on May 7.
County officials said a safety glass window was shattered on a crane, and a power unit on a barge was damaged. Officials went on to say law enforcement is investigating the crime that they said caused $10,000 worth of damage to the Mobley-operated machines.
Saline County Judge Matt Brumley characterized the vandalism using dire terms.
“While we are disgusted by these cowardly, evil, and destructive acts, this will not stop us from completing projects that are so important to the people of Saline County,” Brumley said. We have enhanced our efforts to protect our projects and will work hard to catch those who participate in vandalism, as we have a zero-tolerance approach to these terrible actions.”
Brumley added the award grew as private donations added to the initial $5,000 reward offer.
“These attacks are not only costing the company money but slowing down the progress of the project as well,” Mobley vice president Brad Deaver said. “It is our goal to resolve this issue quickly so that we can focus on completing this project for the community.”
Deaver is asking anyone with information to call Mobley’s office at 501-354-2510. The same number can be used for anyone who wishes to add to the reward fund. The Saline County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number is 501-303-5648.
The Old River Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the state, having originally been built in 1889 to span the Saline River.