Teens arrested in Laton youth football program theft

LATON, Calif. (KFSN) -- Three teens have been arrested in Laton. They're facing charges of stealing from a youth football program.

Rich Olson was shocked to discover someone had stolen from them. Olson is a coach with the Laton Youth Football Program. Tuesday night they discovered pads, footballs, snacks, candy, drinks, had all been taken from their unit outside Laton High School.

The program is completely free, it's designed to help kids build character, and keep them out of trouble. The theft is a huge setback, and will cost thousands to replace. So Olson took to Facebook to let the community know.

Olson said, "I knew the community would pull together and we'd catch these people."

And less than 24 hours later that's exactly what happened.

Sgt Gregg Collins with the Fresno County Sheriff's Office says they've now arrested three teenagers, a 15-year-old, and two 18-year-olds. They've also recovered some of the stolen equipment and food.

The sheriff's office says there are still missing items. They're asking anyone with information to give them a call. The theft, while it still hurts, won't impact what happens on the field.

Olson added, "Everyone knows the good that happens out here."