Thief Takes 2 Snowplows From Yard

Spokane County Sheriff’s deputies say they can always tell when the seasons are about to change. Their tip-off: an increase in burglaries of seasonal equipment.

A resident of the 7600 block of South Craig Road reported that an 8-foot Meyer snowplow valued at $900 and a 4-foot garden tractor snowplow valued at $350 were taken from his home sometime between Oct. 1 and 5, said sheriff’s spokesman Dave Reagan.

The equipment was taken from the victim’s yard. Deputies have no suspects.

“Criminals are opportunists who will steal items that are easily sold for cash,” said Reagan.

“In the summer, we see more stolen lawn mowers. In the winter, it’s snow blowers and snowmobiles - anything that can be sold at pawn shops and yard sales.”

Reagan said people should be aware that winter-related products have more value this time of year and should keep these items out of yards and driveways.

Small change adds up

A resident in the 21400 block of South Beckley Lane reported about $200 in change missing Sunday morning.

The man said he went out to get a load of hay and, when he returned, found the money gone.

Sheriff’s spokesman Dave Reagan said a louvered window within reach of the door apparently had been forced open and the door was then unlocked.

Sheriff’s deputies also found a pillow case filled with videos from the home and a rifle that belonged to the homeowner that had been handled. It appeared the homeowner had interrupted the burglary when he returned home, Reagan said.

Both the gun and the movies were taken by deputies for fingerprinting.

, DataTimes