Columbia County Man Detained Without Bond Following Series of American Flag Thefts From Lake City Businesses

Columbia County deputies arrest 62 year old John Bethune after video shows him stealing American flags from multiple Lake City businesses.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 11, 2026, 6:37 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from WCJB

Surveillance Video Leads to Swift Identification

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office successfully identified a suspect involved in a string of localized thefts after reviewing security footage from a business in Lake City. John Bethune was recorded on Wednesday removing an American flag from Baker’s Communications, a discovery that prompted an immediate investigation by patrolling deputies. The clarity of the video evidence allowed law enforcement to track the individual’s movements and initiate a search for the suspect within the city limits.

Apprehension and Discovery of Stolen Property

Deputies located and arrested Bethune on Thursday, just one day after the initial theft was reported. At the time of his encounter with law enforcement, the 62 year old suspect was reportedly carrying a backpack containing a different American flag that did not belong to him. This immediate discovery suggested that the theft at the communications firm was not an isolated incident, but rather part of a broader pattern of targeted activity against local establishments.

Search of Residence Reveals Additional Flags

The investigation expanded beyond the initial arrest when deputies conducted a search of Bethune’s apartment. During the sweep of the premises, investigators uncovered several more American flags that are believed to have been taken from various businesses throughout the area. These recoveries have allowed the Sheriff’s Office to begin the process of identifying the rightful owners and returning the patriotic displays to the local business community.