30-04-2025
‘They stole memories': Hendersonville man still searching for sentimental items after trailer theft
HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Multiple suspects have been arrested for their connection to a theft that took place nine months ago.
A Hendersonville man told News 2 he feels a profound sense of loss after the crime resulted in several cherished mementos being stolen.
The victim, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation, said he felt 'violated, sick and sad' after the incident.
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According to law enforcement, the theft took place on July 8, 2024. Surveillance video reportedly captured a dark-colored pickup truck drive onto a lot where the victim's 14×7 Diamond Cargo trailer was stored.
Officials said at least two men were seen jumping out of the truck while the vehicle maneuvered back and forth to latch onto the trailer's hitch.
The suspect cut the locks to get access and drove away with the trailer in minutes, according to the victim.
Inside the trailer were several items of significant and sentimental value, including a 2012 Harley Davidson Ultra motorcycle with approximately 1,000 miles. The victim told News 2 he only rode the bike at events that helped him celebrate his parents, who both died of cancer.
'They stole memories,' said the victim. 'Possessions you can replace, memories you cannot.'
In addition to the motorcycle, the suspects also stole items that belonged to the victim's mother and a 20-year-old push mower that had sentimental value and reminded the man of his father.
'It meant everything to me and to have it gone, it infuriates me,' expressed the victim. 'This may sound unhealthy, but to somehow stay connected to him, I would go out there and putt around on that mower like I would with him when I was younger, and to have it go missing is a kick in the gut.'
The Hendersonville Police Department told News 2 that the detective assigned to the case was able to locate the suspect vehicle using license plate recognition technology.
Following an interview with the pickup truck's owner, detectives reportedly learned that Gregory Hatfield, Roy Groff and an unidentified man used the vehicle around the time of the theft.
Based on that information and additional investigative leads, warrants were issued for Hatfield and Groff on July 12, 2024, charging them both with theft over $10,000.
Authorities reported Groff was arrested on July 15. Meanwhile, Hatfield was arrested on August 28.
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The third suspect was later identified as Michael Butterworth. Following an interview with law enforcement, a warrant charging him with theft over $10,000 was issued. Officials said he was taken to the Sumner County Jail on October 13.
Despite the arrests, none of the victim's priceless possessions have been recovered.
'What would you say to these guys man to man if you had the chance,' asked News 2's Andy Cordan.
'I'd say, 'return the things and have a heart,' but clearly they don't have a heart because if they did they would have not stolen them to begin with,' replied the victim.
According to Hendersonville police, those involved in the theft case are expected to appear in court on May 12.
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