WHITWELL, Tenn. — Authorities and utility officials are investigating what SVEConnect describes as intentional and criminal damage to fiber-optic infrastructure on Whitwell Mountain that disrupted internet service for customers in the Mt. Olive community.

According to SVEConnect, fiber lines were deliberately cut on two consecutive days along the 2500 block of Mt. Olive Road last week, causing outages for customers in the area. Mt. Olive Road is located atop Whitwell Mountain in Marion County.

Photo courtesy: SVEConnect

The broadband provider said crews responded to both incidents and worked to restore connectivity as quickly as possible. Photos released by the company show severed fiber lines attached to utility poles and technicians repairing the damaged infrastructure.

SVEConnect officials said the incidents are being investigated in coordination with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and federal authorities. The company is asking anyone with information that could help identify those responsible to come forward.

A reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those involved. Individuals providing information may remain anonymous.

Company officials noted that intentional damage to telecommunications infrastructure is a serious crime that can carry both state and federal penalties. The investigation is expected to include assistance from federal agencies as authorities work to determine who was responsible for the damage.

Anyone with information regarding the incidents is encouraged to contact SVEConnect or the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

No arrests have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.