The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has arrested local pool cleaner Jason McMahon, 40, for stealing bronze lawn statues and scrapping them for cash.

Deputies say McMahon stole $8,500 worth of bird statues from at least three homes on Siesta Key and Prestancia. He has been charged with one count of Grand Theft for each case.

“This is a prime example of the level of desperation that is driving local crime,” said Sheriff Tom Knight. “People addicted to prescription drugs will steal just about anything to fund their habit, and he was getting about $100 for each statue despite their actual value.”

Detectives have recovered more statues than were reported stolen. If you are missing a lawn ornament and didn't report the crime, contact Criminal Investigations at 861-4901.

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