By SUSAN LYNCH
CV&T Contributor
The United Methodist Mountain Mission “Opportunity Store” was burglarized sometime between 10:30 p.m on Tuesday, July 5, and the early morning hours of July 6.
On Wednesday morning, store clerk Summer Arvin parked her car in front of the back door and was getting ready to enter the building when she noticed the glass had been shattered. She immediately called store manager Rhonda Benton and waited before entering. Benton called 911 and was informed that there were no officers available to assist them. Both on duty Estill County officers were already assisting others so the Kentucky State Police were called instead.
Upon entering the building, store empoyees were devastated to find the glass showcase broken, cash register in several pieces in the floor behind the counter, numerous racks turned onto their sides, and the office destroyed.
Store clerk Ashley Darbyshire posted the following on Facebook Wednesday, and I think we would all agree: “Thank you all for your offerings and prayers. We spent the entire day putting things back in order and cleaning up glass. It’s like our second home, and we work so hard trying to keep it looking nice and orderly for our customers. It is such a shame that this happened, but we will come out ahead!”
The thieves managed to get away with several gallon Ziploc bags full of jewelry and an undisclosed amount of cash. Several mannequins also appeared to be stripped of their clothing. There have already been several tips called in including a vehicle description. If you have any information about the person or people who broke in, you are asked to contact The Opportunity Store directly at 723-3071 or contact KSP Richmond at (859) 623-2404.