University police investigating theft of electronics from dorm rooms

The thief or thieves responsible for stealing more than $2,000 of miscellaneous high-tech items from Southeast Missouri State University dorm rooms Monday remain on the loose.

The Southeast Department of Public Safety said it has four incidents of theft, where victims have reported cameras, televisions, video recording devices, iPods and cell phones stolen.

Department of Public Safety director Doug Richards said he believes the incidents are connected and that investigators are exploring a number of avenues to find those responsible.

"We will be doing some interviewing and so forth over the next 24 to 48 hours," Richards said.

Investigators will also be reviewing video from the Towers South on North Sprigg Street, where the thefts occurred.

Ann Hayes, Southeast News Bureau director, said the four incidents occurred on the sixth and 11th floors of the dormitory.

"It's extremely unusual to have this many," Richards said. "It's a crime of opportunity, and [thieves] are going to look for whatever there is that's movable and has a value to them."

Southeast plans to release more information on the investigation as evidence is discovered.

ehevern@semissourian.com

388-3635

Pertinent addresses:

1 University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, Mo.