Two individuals have been arrested and arraigned in connection with a series of thefts across Orleans and Niagara counties, including the theft of a trailer valued at over $102,000. Paul Rutherford Jr., 51, and Cori Rutherford, 27, were taken into custody following an investigation by the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office.
The pair is accused of stealing a trailer from Lake Shore Metals in Ridgeway back in February. According to authorities, the duo transported the stolen trailer to North Carolina on the same day it was taken where they sold it for just $4,000.
Investigators indicated that additional individuals were involved in the theft scheme, although their identities are currently being withheld as the investigation continues. In addition to the trailer theft, Paul Rutherford Jr. faces multiple charges related to other thefts, including the alleged theft of a farm truck from Root Brother’s Farm in Barre, another farm truck from the Town of Newfane, and various equipment such as diesel fuel, pumps, hoses, and a hydraulic hammer from Grow Mark FS Inc. in Ridgeway.
In total, authorities estimate that Paul Rutherford has stolen approximately $200,000 worth of property since January leading to eight criminal cases against him with the potential for more charges to be filed. Paul Rutherford Jr. has been charged with two counts of second-degree grand larceny, two counts of third-degree grand larceny, third-degree burglary, and fourth-degree criminal mischief.
He has posted bail and is currently released. Additionally, he faces grand larceny and criminal possession of stolen property charges in Niagara County. Cori Rutherford has been charged with second-degree grand larceny and was released on his own recognizance. The investigation into the thefts is ongoing.
Two Arrested in Connection with Thefts in Niagara and Orleans Counties Including a $102K Trailer