May 20, 2013
On Tuesday, officers with the Marianna Police Department responded to 4200 Clay St. in response to a call about a pickup being at the house and people removing items from the house.
Upon their arrival they made contact with Cecil Highsmith who told officers that he had permission to be at the residence removing items.
Gene Van Speight was at the rear of the truck when officers arrived.
While the officers attempted to verify that the men had permission to be at the property they attempted to continue working.
The residence is on the dilapidated structure list for the city of Marianna and is scheduled for demolition.
After contacting the contractor and city of Marianna code enforcement officer who Highsmith said he had gotten permission from it was learned that they did not have permission to be on the premises or to remove items from the property.
Both men were arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail to await first appearance.
Charge: Grand Theft, Burglary of a structure causing more than $1000.00 in damage.
