Police need public’s help
to solve crimes
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — The Presque Isle Police Department is seeking the public’s help in solving a variety of crimes, including vandalism and burglary, that have occurred recently in the Star City.
Over the past two months, the PIPD received about a dozen complaints of criminal mischief taking place in business parking lots along Academy Street, with individuals reporting finding nails and screws in their tires — some in the sidewalls. Cars were parked in at least three separate parking lots, including: the nursing home, Full Circle and Northern Physical Therapy.
“There have been numerous reports, most involving daytime employees finding flat tires on their vehicles when they finish their shifts. None can recall traveling near construction, where they might pick up nails or screws. At least a couple discovered screws in the side of the their tires,” said Chief Naldo Gagnon, PIPD. “With the price of tires, this can be costly for those affected.”
Police are also investigating a number of car burglaries that have occurred — the majority taking place between Monday and Tuesday of this week. In each case, the perpetrator(s) appear to be looking for easy-to-carry items like change and electronics.
“We’ve had reports of a number of Ipods and loose change stolen from unlocked vehicles,” said Gagnon.
Gagnon said cars were targeted at residences along Canterbury, Oak, Dudley and Martin streets Monday night, along with one on Conventry Court.
“We also had a car burglarized on Third Street the night before,” he said. “Whoever’s involved seems to be targeting unlocked cars, taking small electronic devices like Ipods and cell phones, as well as change,” Gagnon said.
The chief said at least eight cases had been reported as of presstime.
Sgt. Mark Barnes, PIPD, was one of several officers involved in investigating the burglaries.
“We encourage people to lock their vehicles, no matter where they are parked. It’s a good method to deter criminal activity,” said Barnes. “This is a crime of opportunity. Eliminate the opportunity, and you help reduce crime.”
Anyone with information on either of these crimes is asked to contact the PIPD at 764-4476.
