CAIRO, Ga. (WALB) — The Grady County Sheriff’s Office says three people have been arrested in connection with the theft and destruction of commercial air conditioning units at Cairo High School.

Investigators arrested Jefferey Dalton, Stacy Mash, and James James following what the sheriff’s office described as an extensive investigation. Authorities say the commercial HVAC units, located on school property, were allegedly stolen and damaged over the course of several days. The sheriff’s office estimates the value of the stolen and damaged equipment at just under $60,000.

As a result of the investigation, the sheriff’s office says a combined 45 felony warrants have been obtained for the three suspects. All three are being held at the Grady County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center pending further judicial proceedings.

Investigators also learned Dalton was out on bond and awaiting court on previous theft-related charges at the time of the alleged offenses, according to the sheriff’s office.

Sheriff Martin Earl Prince praised investigators for their work and said the case remains active.

“I want to personally commend our investigators for the countless hours they’ve devoted to this case,” Prince said. “Their hard work, determination, and commitment to protecting our community have led to these arrests, but this investigation is far from over. This remains an active case, and we fully expect additional arrests as we continue following every lead.”

Prince said the sheriff’s office has “zero tolerance” for crimes targeting schools or public property.

“Anyone who believes they can steal from our schools or damage public property should understand that we will use every available resource to identify, locate, and arrest those responsible,” Prince said. “We will continue working until everyone involved is held accountable.”

The sheriff also thanked residents who provided information during the investigation.

“We are grateful to the citizens who came forward with information,” Prince said. “Your willingness to speak up made a difference, and we appreciate the trust you place in our office. Public cooperation remains one of our greatest tools in solving crimes.”

The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges and arrests are anticipated, according to the sheriff’s office.

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