On Monday night, December 25, 2023, officers responded to Adair Regional Jail shortly after 9:30pmCT, after report of a suspicious male and vehicle parked in front of the facility on Greensburg Street.

Upon arrival, officers made contact with the subject and determined that he was under the influence and detained him. The vehicle in question was a state Highway Department truck which had visible damage on the body.

The Highway Department was notified and it was soon found male had stolen the truck from their office on Campbellsville Street, driving through a locked gate in the process and causing damage to property and vehicle.

Joseph Shafer, 48, of Columbia, has been charged with public intoxication, criminal trespassing 3rd degree, criminal mischief 1st degree and theft by unlawful taking automobile.

Officer Elliot Smith was the arresting officer. He was assisted Sgt Justin Cross and Deputies Jason Camfield and Derek Padget.