PATASKALA, Ohio — A beloved apple orchard in Licking County is enacting new measures after the owner said more people attempted to steal hundreds of dollars’ worth of apples this month.

Each fall, Lynd Fruit Farm in Pataskala welcomes visitors who take part in the long-standing tradition of picking apples straight from the orchard. The system relies heavily on trust — guests pick apples and pay afterward. But recently, that trust has been tested.

Over Labor Day weekend, owner Noah Lynd said that four people attempted to take apples without paying. In one case, someone allegedly hid $350 worth of apples in their car.

To prevent further theft, the apple-picking farm added new signs reminding visitors of the payment system. Staff members were also more visible in the orchard to deter disho

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