Pinal County, Arizona – A wedding is a special day for couples, surrounded by friends and family, celebrating all love until part of the day is stolen.

Several Valley couples who tied the knot had their wedding card boxes snatched by the former Pinal County Sheriff’s Deputy Dressed as a guest and stole over $10,000 from a newlywed couple.

Kacey and Tyler Lawhead got married in the East Valley in March, fell in love, and were unfortunately robbed.

“It was absolutely perfect. I cried at the end because I didn’t want it to end, but I didn’t realize it was all gone until 10 p.m. when the event was over,” Casey said.

Chandler Police said Landon Earl Rankin, 54, was responsible for stealing multiple wedding card boxes around the Valley.

“He was dressed as a partygoer. He acted like a guest, walked in, signed the guest book, pretended to be dropping cards and actually got them.” she added.

Rankin hit events held in Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert and Pinal counties raised thousands of dollars.

“Money is one issue, but feeling violated or having your stuff taken away is quite another. And it was heartbreaking. Some of the cards are special gifts and some are very sentimental.”

Casey added that Rankin’s crime isn’t going to ruin their special day, but she does have some advice when it comes to future couples.

“Have someone pick up your card right after cocktail hour and have them sit outside or where it’s already available. So, have your family and bridesmaids put the card in their suit or car, and just don’t go out.” by the way.”

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