Sheriff: Teens used stolen canoes to steal $12K worth of property on Lake Hartwell during night hours
Property stolen from Gumlog community of Lake Hartwell

WYFF 4Updated: 11:04 AM EST Jan 30, 2020
LAKE HARTWELL —

Two teens were arrested for stealing more than $12,000 worth of property from boat docks on Lake Hartwell, according to Franklin County Sheriff Steve Thomas.

Thomas said James William Adams, 18, and a juvenile used stolen canoes to go to boat docks during the night and steal property.

The property included rods and reels, fishing lures, fishing tackle, binoculars, lights, anchors and ropes, Thomas said.

Thomas said the investigation began in June. He said on Jan. 15 authorities arrested Adams and found a large quantity of fishing equipment that was identified as being stolen from docks in the Gumlog community of Lake Hartwell.

The stolen property was valued at more than $12,000; so far, $5,000 worth has been recovered, according to Thomas.

Adams is charged with two counts of felony theft and one count of burglary. The juvenile was turned over to juvenile services.