A deerly departed decoration

Deer crossing ahead. And deer missing, too.

The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office reported a theft at North Neighbor Court on Monday.

"Someone came onto the property and stole a lighted deer Christmas decoration. In its place a deer crossing sign was left," the report read.

It was later learned the sign had been removed from Brunner Road. The Highway District was notified to come and retrieve the sign.

Authorities generally receive several reports over the holidays about the thefts of Christmas decorations, including Santa and his reindeer.