Deputy car burglarized, assault rifle stolen
By RICK WOOD Staff Reporter
Friday night a deputy living on Camano Island had his 2008 Dodge Charger patrol vehicle broken into, according to Island County Sheriff's Office Detective Ed Wallace.
"The suspect pried open the door and removed a Panasonic CF-30 "Toughbook" lap top computer, a cell phone and a digital camera," said Wallace.
The suspect also stole a Smith & Wesson AR-15 military-style rifle with a laser sight, he said.
Total loss is estimated at more than $6,000.
The vehicle was parked in front of the deputy's residence, and the deputy and his wife were home at the time, said Wallace.
The sheriff's office brought in K-9 tracking dogs in an attempt to locate the perpetrator.
"The vehicle is being processed for any evidence that would identify a suspect," he said. "We currently have no suspects and the investigation is ongoing."
The lap top computer is password protected and contains no sensitive information, said Wallace.
Sheriff Mark Brown said he is disturbed at the audacity and nature of the break-in.
However, Brown does not believe the crime to be related to one of the island's most notorious burglars.
"I have fielded many questions about whether or not this was done by Colton Harris- Moore," said Brown. "I have no positive evidence linking him to this crime at this time."
Brown said he is calling on all citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity by calling 911.
Reporter Rick Wood: 629-8066 ext. 104 or rwood@scnews.com.
