African memorabilia stolen from Inez

Published 9:52 am Thursday, October 9, 2014

DAILY LEADER / KATIE WILLIAMSON / Betty Barham stands next to her display of African Artifacts in the lobby of the Inez Sept 22, days before it was all stolen.

DAILY LEADER / KATIE WILLIAMSON / Betty Barham stands next to her display of African Artifacts in the lobby of the Inez Sept 22, days before it was all stolen.

During her eight years as a missionary in Africa Betty Barham has collected sentimental knickknacks and photos that she displayed at the Inez. On Sept. 29, everything was stolen.

Barham said it was all taken and the items had more sentimental value than monetary. The display consisted of figurines, baskets, fabrics and countless photos.

Barham was working as a nurse in impoverished African villages and was able to spread Christianity to many of the locals.

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Brookhaven Police Chief Bobby Bell said that Barham reported the incident on Sept. 29. He said she reported that she was cleaning out the display case and put all of the items in a basket that she left in the lobby of the Inez over night. He added that this is the kind of situation that is very difficult to pursue, but it is still being looked in to.

Barham said she is working with the Inez management to watch security tapes and hopefully get some idea of what happened. She added she will probably never see her items again, but she has to try.

If you have any information regarding the theft call the Brookhaven Police Department at 601-833-2424.