STAMFORD, Mass. — An unpatriotic thief made off with nearly a dozen of the town's flags on the Fourth of July.

A resident untwisting some of the flags posted on utility poles along Main Road to make the display look better for the holiday found a number of them missing.

According to a report by state Trooper Lauren Ronan, it appeared that one or more persons had pulled down on the flags, causing them to break away from their metal brackets.

A total of nine American flags were stolen; one was recovered on the ground next to the roadway.

It is believed the flags were taken early in the morning on July 4. The state police are continuing to investigate this incident.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Shaftsbury barracks at 802-442-5421. Information can also be submitted anonymously online at www.vtips.info or text "CRIMES" (274637) to Keyword: VTIPS.