Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office received a theft report on Feb. 2. The report came from Black River Lutheran Church. It involved a sidewalk scraper. The tool is used to clear ice and snow.
Authorities say a citation was issued to Christopher Marvin Pickens, 49, of Thief River Falls. The citation lists an alleged theft. A citation is not a conviction. The allegation must be proven in court.
What was reported
Investigators say church staff noticed the scraper was missing. The scraper was stored on church property. Staff reported the loss to the sheriff’s office. The report did not list other missing items.
Sidewalk tools are common in winter. They help keep walkways clear. They can reduce slips and falls. Many churches keep tools near entrances.
What the citation alleges
According to the citation, surveillance video captured the incident. The video allegedly shows Pickens taking the scraper. The time listed was 1:41 p.m. on Jan. 26. The citation says the scraper was removed from the church area.
The sheriff’s office did not provide an estimated value for the tool. Officials did not release more details about the investigation. No injuries were reported in connection with the alleged theft.
Timeline
- Jan. 26, 1:41 p.m.: The alleged theft was recorded on video, the citation says.
- Feb. 2: The sheriff’s office received the theft report from the church.
- After Feb. 2: A theft citation was issued, authorities said.
What happens next
A theft citation can lead to a court case. It may also be reviewed by prosecutors. Possible outcomes include dismissal, a plea, or a trial. A judge or jury decides guilt.
People accused of a crime are presumed innocent. That remains true during the case. Public records may show future court dates. Case details can change as new facts appear.
Readers can search Minnesota public court records at the Minnesota Judicial Branch website. Minnesota’s general theft law is published at Minnesota Statute 609.52.
If you have information about this case, contact local law enforcement. Do not approach anyone yourself.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.