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Last updated 8:51 am CT February 09, 2010.
Another String of Burglaries in Jackson County
The businesses hit were the Vergennes Equipment Company, the R and M Auto Shop in Murphysboro, and Williams Heating and Air Conditioning also in Murphysboro.
The crimes happened in the overnight hours Saturday.
Jackson County deputies believe these latest break-ins are connected, but it's not clear if they are related to another string of burglaries that happened last weekend.
One thing officials are telling us is they think all of the break-in's are a sign of tough economic times.
"The door had been pried open and twisted to lock."
For Frank Grizzell, an employee at the Vergennes Equipment Company, being targeted by burglars brings up one feeling-- aggravation.
"We've been here 24, going on 25 years. We've never been broken into and it goes to show-- locked doors don't stop them."
Despite valuable equipment in the store, Grizzell says the suspects stole only what was in the cash register.
In Murphysboro, it was a similar scenario at R and M Auto shop.
"There was forced entry and again the cash drawer was opened up and money was taken" says Deputy Mark Wilson with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.
Also, at Williams Heating and Air Conditioning next door there was another break-in, but this time nothing was stolen.
"We do not know at this time if entry was actually gained into the building and the suspects were scared away" says Wilson.
Last weekend, deputies were kept busy, investigating a string of burglaries at businesses spanning two counties-- Jackson and Randolph.
Among those targeted-- the Pit Stop Tavern in Campbell Hill and Frank's Bait Shop in Gorham.
Two suspects face burglary charges for one of the crimes.
Anthony Schneider and Christopher Dallas-- both of Willisville-- are now being held at the Randolph County jail, and officials say more charges could be coming.
To Deputy Wilson, the long list of recent burglaries indicates one thing.
"The economy is not in a very good situation nowadays" says Wilson. "I believe we'll see a lot more of these businesses who will start investing in alarm systems and video surveillance."
Anyone with information on these crimes should call the Jackson County Sheriff's Office at 618-684-2177.
By: Jackie McPherson
jmcpherson@wsiltv.com
Additional Links:
Jackson County's Official Website
Now: 1265727555
