The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to report that a purse reported stolen from Holy Hill has been successfully recovered, following investigative work and assistance from the public.

After the initial report, deputies pursued multiple avenues, including outreach to regional law enforcement partners and a review of social media relating to Holy Hill during the Christmas holiday period. After posting a story about the investigation, the Sheriff’s Office received several tips indicating the purse had been returned and identifying a person believed to be involved.

Further investigation led deputies to a former residence associated with the victim, where the purse was located and recovered. The purse was left on the front porch. Preliminary checks indicate most of the contents of the purse, including a substantial amount of cash, were recovered and appear to be consistent with what was originally reported missing. Not all contents have been recovered. Final verification is ongoing, but the outcome is being considered a positive resolution.

“We are extremely grateful for the public’s willingness to share information and for the role social media played in bringing this case to a successful conclusion,” said Washington County Sheriff Martin Schulteis in a press release. “Posts from our sheriff’s office social media page helped this information reach the right people quickly. This case is a strong reminder that social media and the news media are important public safety tools when used responsibly.”

Some follow-up investigation remains, at the time of this story. The Washington County Sheriff's Office is working with the victim to determine the level of law enforcement action that will be taken.