Thieves Steal Two Black Swans and Eggs from Lakeland Mobile Home Park
Residents Devastated by Heartless Crime
Residents at Highland Village Mobile Park in Lakeland are still reeling over the theft of two black swans and their eggs on Wednesday night. The swans, named Sterling and Luna, were part of the community’s wildlife family and were known to roam freely in the park’s backyard.
A Home for the Birds
According to Lynda Eddlemon, the trailer community’s property manager, the swans had lived in the mobile home park for years and were a beloved fixture. "They come here, they know they feel safe, they get fed," she said. "They’re like our kids. These are like our children, our babies."
Surveillance Video Captures the Crime
Surveillance video captured two people with large nets and a bucket, just after 9 p.m. on Wednesday, as they snuck into the park and stole the swans and their eggs. It took the duo around 30 minutes to complete the heist.
Community in Shock and Anger
Eddlemon described the scene as "silence and anger" as the community struggles to come to terms with the loss of the swans. "You can hear a silence in the park. You can hear anger that they’re gone," she said. "It’s been devastating, especially to the caregiver."
Police Investigation Underway
Detectives with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office are working to catch the thieves and recover the stolen swans and their eggs. Sheriff Grady Judd described the crime as "cruel" and urged the community to report any information to the authorities.
Community Offers Reward
The community is offering a reward for information leading to the recovery of the swans and their eggs. As of Saturday night, the swans and their eggs have not been found. If you have any information on this theft or the stolen swans’ whereabouts, call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 888-400-TIPS (8477).
Conclusion
The theft of these beloved swans has left the community in shock and anger. As the investigation continues, residents are holding out hope that the swans and their eggs will be returned to their home. The community’s resilience and determination to recover the stolen wildlife is a testament to the power of community spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to the swans and their eggs?
A: The swans, named Sterling and Luna, were stolen from Highland Village Mobile Park in Lakeland, along with their eggs, on Wednesday night.
Q: Who is responsible for the theft?
A: The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crime, but no suspects have been identified at this time.
Q: Is there a reward for information on the theft?
A: Yes, the community is offering a reward for information leading to the recovery of the swans and their eggs. Call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 888-400-TIPS (8477) to report any information.
