Far, Far Away from Whoville... in Stanton, Alabama

On November 30th, while the Stanton community gathered to enjoy the annual Christmas Parade, the Grinch was spotted deep in his usual brand of holiday mischief. Spectators watched in disbelief as he helped himself to an impressive amount of parade gifts-stuffing them into a lumpy sack that looked like it had lost every fight it ever had.

Witnesses reported seeing the Grinch wobbling through the crowd, waving candy canes like victory flags, all while wearing a Santa suit that had been reported stolen earlier that morning from the Stanton Community Center.

That's when Investigator Derrick Bone stepped in. He noticed the Grinch attempting to steal a bright orange Kubota side-by-side loaded with gifts. With the determination of someone running on a potent mix of coffee and energy drinks, Investigator Bone sprinted into action-dodging parade floats, weaving through tinsel, and cutting through Christmas cheer-until he finally caught up to the Grinch and brought the chaos to a merry halt.

Moments later, the Grinch found himself in handcuffs once again and was transported to the Chilton County Jail on charges of Attempted Theft of Property (with clear intent to steal Christmas cheer), Unlawful Breaking and Entering a Vehicle, Attempting to Elude the Christmas Spirit, and Possession of a green leafy substance he claimed was mistletoe.

The Grinch's probation is also being revoked by District Judge Chris Speaks for charges stemming from last Christmas-hopefully giving him time to reflect and realize that the true meaning of Christmas comes without ribbons, without packages, without boxes or bags... and certainly without chaos at the Stanton Christmas Parade!

A big thank-you to Investigator Derrick Bone and the rest of the Chilton County Sheriff's Office for keeping our community safe once again.

Sheriff John Shearon and the Chilton County Sheriff's Office wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!