The Roanoke-Chowan News Herald has made several changes in single copy sales that are taking effect this week and next.

Many stores previously served by outside racks have been converted to inside sales locations, with the paper now available for purchase at the register. In addition, some remaining outside rack locations will receive only a token number of Saturday papers due to excessive theft. Nearby stores that sell the paper inside will receive extra copies to accommodate those readers wishing to purchase the News Herald.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but there are many other locations within a very short distance of these racks where customers can buy the paper,” News Herald Publisher Michael Leonard said. “We appreciate all of our readers, both home delivery and single copy buyers.”

Those racks chosen to receive fewer Saturday papers were picked due to high rates of theft on that day’s edition. They will continue to receive the Tuesday and Thursday issues of the newspaper.

Theft of newspapers is a misdemeanor, punishable by fines and jail time. The News Herald will vigorously press charges against anyone caught.

“The Roanoke-Chowan News Herald does not in any way blame the owners or staff of these establishments for the high rates of theft the racks there suffer,” Leonard said. “We hope this step will discourage those few people who have been plundering the racks to think about what they are doing, consider the consequences and stop.”

Single copy readers are encouraged to take advantage of the convenience and savings of subscribing and getting the paper at home. Readers save nearly 20 percent off the single copy rate by subscribing. Call (252) 332-7213 to get your subscription started today.