Burglar Stole Ring More Valuable Than Diamond

Published on 10/06/11

Todd and Ginger Hice have lived for 11 years on an 11-acre tract of land in the Crowders Mountain area, enjoying the peace of the countryside while having a few neighbors close by.

That peace was violated Wednesday when the Hices’ adult son came home around 3:30 p.m. to find the back door off its hinges.

A burglar had kicked down the door and pilfered an estimated $20,000 of the family’s belongings – everything from clothing and jewelry to big-screen TVs, Playstations, electronics and guns. Even the couple’s personal checks were taken from the home on Sparrow Springs Road.

Ginger Hice said all the items can be replaced save one – a simple engagement ring given to her by Todd when he proposed marriage nearly 27 years ago. To her, the ring is priceless and she’d do anything in the world to get it back.

“I know it sounds silly. My husband and I have been together 30 years. I had it on when our children were born, I even had it on at our prom,” Ginger said. “I’m just devastated. They could’ve taken anything and it’s the one thing that means the most to me.”