Two boys have been charged weeks after half-a-million bees were found dead on a honey farm in Iowa.
The boys, whose names haven’t been released because they are juveniles, have been charged with three felonies—criminal mischief, agricultural animal facilities offenses, and 3rd-degree burglary—as well as the misdemeanor of possession of burglar’s tools.
Damage of the losses were estimated at $60,000. It’s unclear if the boys will be responsible for paying any of the damages.
After discovering the massive loss in December, Wild Hill Honey co-owner Justin Engelhardt said the crime was “completely senseless.”
“They broke into our shed, they took all our equipment out and threw it out in the snow, smashed what they could. Doesn’t look like anything was stolen, everything was just vandalized or destroyed.”
Because insurers don’t offer coverage for beehives, the crime likely ended the business, Engelhardt said.
“Thank you to everyone for your generous contributions and your amazing show of support. Because of you, we will be able to continue our business in the spring. We are deeply moved by your compassion,” Engelhardt and his wife Tori wrote.
“Between the contributions and the equipment we were able to salvage, our needs have been met. There are so many great causes to support. Our wish is that this spirit of compassion will be used to help others now. Thank you.”
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