The theft of $4,500 worth of equipment from the Monroe Power Equipment Company in Covington appears to be part of a multi-state theft spree.

"It seems that they are a group traveling over the state," said owner and Oxford Mayor Jerry Roseberry.

In the past week, the thieves have been hitting dealerships in neighboring counties, such as Pike County and into Alabama, Roseberry was told by authorities.

When Covington police responded to the 4:45 a.m. alarm call June 1 at the lawn and garden equipment dealership, they found a broken front door, and Roseberry said 10 weed eaters, one chainsaw and three blowers were stolen.

Police initially cleared the area with an officer and his K-9. Law enforcement found a dry black rag in front of the store; the rag was entered into evidence because it may have come from the thieves as it was dry despite the fact there had been heavy rains for most of the night.

According to authorities, the stores’ security tape apparently shows two male suspects who appeared to have backed a light color SUV to the front door, where they made entry and loaded the stolen merchandise into the rear of the SUV.

Detective Daniel Seals of the Covington Police Department said video from the surveillance system was still being pulled to find further evidence.