2 Boys Arrested, Accused Of Destroying Sioux City Honey Business

SIOUX CITY, IA – Two boys, ages 12 and 13, were arrested on Wednesday and charged in connection with the destruction of beehives at a honey business in December. The boys each face felony charges, including burglary criminal mischief, and agricultural animal offenses, according to a police report.

Police detectives did not detail their investigation in the report, but thanked the public for tips. No other arrests are anticipated in the case, police reported.

Vandals caused an estimated $60,000 in damage to the Wild Hill Honey business in Sioux City on Dec. 27, police said. The vandals broke into a building at the business, and threw beehives stored in the building into the snow outside. More than 500,000 bees were in the hives, police said.

The business was not insured. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the owners rebuild their business. So far, the campaign has yielded $30,693, exceeding a goal of $24,000.

Late in December, the owners of the business, Justin and Tori Engelhardt, wrote on the page that they would be able to continue their business with the donation.

"Because of you, we will be able to continue our business in the spring. We are deeply moved by your compassion. Between the contributions and the equipment we were able to salvage, our needs have been met. There are so many great causes to support. Our wish is that this spirit of compassion will be used to help others now. Thank you."

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