Bond reduced in McBee's theft; costs mounting for owners

The aftermath of an early morning theft and subsequent damage to McBee's Store on May 11th is proving to be quite costly. While initial estimates put a price tag of around $50,000 on damages, the actual amount- when all is said and done, will be substantially more. 


"By the time you add restocking costs, added insurance costs, lost business, lost stock from damage, it's gonna be a lot more than $50,000" said owner Leslie McBee this morning.


While the motive appeared to be theft, access was gained by driving a pickup truck through the front doors of the building, causing extensive damage to the storefront, fixtures and contents. 

McDonald

On May 16th, the Bates County Sheriff's Department announced the arrest of Michael L. McDonald, 30, of Paola Ks as a primary suspect in the case. Originally, McDonald's bond was set at $50,000, but later reduced to $5,000- adding insult to injury for the McBee's. "I can't understand how someone could cause so much damage, then have the bond reduced so much. It just doesn't make sense" said Ms. McBee.


In the meantime McDonald, who has plead not guilty, faces an arraignment June 1st at 9 a.m. in Bates County Circuit Court.