MOUNT VERNON — The Knox County Sheriff’s Office is investigating several incidents of vandalism that include nails and screws being placed on roadways, Sheriff David Shaffer said in a Tuesday afternoon press release.
The incidents seem to be concentrated in the areas of Gilchrist, Paige, Monroe Mills, and Danville Amity Roads. These incidents of criminal damaging are similar to reports taken last year, he noted.
In 2017, the Knox County Sheriff’s Department took at least 15 similar reports, mostly during March and April. The reports involved items such as screws or roofing nails being spread on the roadway. Some of the nails and screws were even painted to help camouflage them.
Last year, as well as this year, a large screw has been recovered.
“Both times the screw had been drilled into the roadway,” Shaffer said. “The portion sticking out had been cut on an angle in an attempt to deflate the tires on passing vehicles.”
Deputies and county highway personnel have used brooms and magnets in some of the areas in an attempt to clear the hazards. One of the incidents involved a motorcycle which makes the potential for serious injury even greater.
“In addition to the financial concerns for victims, we are concerned that someone could be seriously injured or killed if a vehicle were to crash,” Shaffer said. “Officers are urging anyone who may have information on the suspect, or suspects involved, to call the dispatch center at 740-397-3333 ext. 1 or the confidential tip line at 740-399-3959.”
