Police: 'Duck Dynasty' scarecrow thief a juvenile

BALL GROUND, Ga., Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Police in Georgia said a suspect was arrested in the case of a scarecrow modeled after "Duck Dynasty" personality Uncle Si Robertson.

Ball Ground Police Chief Bryon Reeves said the remains of the missing scarecrow, created by a group of Ball Ground Elementary School fourth-grade parents for the city's inaugural scarecrow contest, were found scattered and burned Friday and a juvenile who admitted to taking the scarecrow was arrested on a charge of theft by taking, The (Canton) Cherokee Tribune reported Tuesday.

"It's unfortunate that they lost their scarecrow, but maybe ... out of his own remorse, he might make them a new one," Reeves said. "If they learn anything, [it is] that stealing is wrong no matter whose it is; if it's not yours, don't take it."

Reeves said the person who tipped police off to the location of the scarecrow could receive a $1,000 reward if the thief is convicted in juvenile court.

Allison Martin, one of the parents who worked on the scarecrow, said the group has decided to forgive the thief.

"To begin with we were kind of upset, the main reason we had done 'Duck Dynasty' was because of the background and their beliefs and we truly believe in them, and as a community we have to forgive," Martin said.