BEDFORD – A Heltonville woman, Mary Ratliff, 49, has been charged with theft following an investigation by the Lawrence County Police Department. The charge stems from allegations that Ratliff stole approximately $3,600 from her employer, Timberhawk Bows, located in the 2000 block of State Road 446.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Officer Christian James, the investigation began on June 18, 2025, when the owner of Timberhawk Bows reported the alleged thefts. The owner stated that Ratliff, an employee at his business, had taken money on multiple occasions.
The owner informed police that Ratliff allegedly stole from the cash box in the store four separate times, from two bank deposits, and once from an envelope. The most recent incident reported was on June 2, 2025, when Ratliff allegedly took $300. The owner also stated he possesses video footage of this particular incident.
The affidavit notes that on June 13, 2025, Mary Ratliff had contacted the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, expressing a desire to turn herself in for the theft. Major Blackburn spoke with her at that time.. On June 16, the owner contacted Captain Phillips, indicating he wished to wait to press charges until he consulted with his insurance company.
Officer James received several videos from the business, which reportedly show Mary Ratliff taking money from the cash box on multiple occasions. A signed verification of stolen property by the owner has been attached to the case.
Based on the presented evidence, including the employer’s report, video footage, and Ratliff’s initial contact with law enforcement, Officer James concluded there is probable cause to believe Ratliff committed the offense of theft. A warrant for her arrest was requested. She was detained on Tuesday, July 22.
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.
