MITCHELL – A Mitchell man is facing preliminary charges of leaving the scene of an accident and criminal mischief following an investigation into a vandalized mailbox on Mill Creek Road.
According to an affidavit for probable cause filed by Sgt. Robin Compton of the Lawrence County Police Department reported that officers responded to a call for service in the 700 block of Mill Creek Road at approximately 8:11 p.m. on March 19. The male caller reported vandalism to his mailbox.
Upon arrival, Sgt. Compton observed the damaged mailbox, which was largely separated from its post. The caller informed police of ongoing issues with his neighbor, Randy Terrell, 66, including a recent animal control complaint earlier that day regarding Terrell’s dog.
The caller provided security camera footage from approximately 11:45 a.m. on March 19, which shows a white pickup truck traveling westbound, briefly stopping at his mailbox, and then turning into Terrell’s driveway on Mill Creek Road. Another camera captured the car passing with a driver wearing a light-colored long-sleeve shirt. The caller expressed his belief that Terrell had damaged his mailbox in retaliation.
Sgt. Compton subsequently made contact with Randy Terrell at his residence, observing a white truck matching the description from the surveillance footage in his driveway. When questioned about hitting the mailbox, Terrell stated he was unsure and maintained that he was unaware after reviewing the video. He also disputed the timestamp on the footage.
Sgt. Compton noted fresh gouge marks and a dent on the front passenger side of Terrell’s truck, including the hood and front fender.
Based on the investigation, Sgt. Compton sent the information to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for Terrrell’s arrest. He was detained on May 24.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the Probable Cause Affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
