For Immediate Release
| PR #: | 1500097 |
| Date Issued: | Aug 27, 2015 - 10:18am |
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Alert Washoe County employees tip Sheriff's Deputies to attempted metal theft |
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| CONTACT: | Bob Harmon Washoe County Sheriff's Office Office 775-785-6235 Cell 775-722-5517 |
Thanks to a tip from alert Washoe County employees, Sheriff's Office Deputies were able to stop a potential metal theft in progress and take the suspect into custody.
Shortly before 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2015, employees working at the County's Administrative Complex on 9th Street noticed suspicious activity in a vacant, county-owned lot across the street from the south side of the complex.
Responding Deputies made contact with Mark Brian Johnson, age 64, at the scene. After further investigation, Deputies arrested Johnson on charges of Attempted Burglary, Possession of Burglary Tools and Trespassing.
"We spend a great deal of time talking with the public about the importance of reporting suspicious activity," Sheriff Chuck Allen said. "In this instance, the importance of that message was emphasized by the actions of some of our fellow public employees. As Sheriff, I would just like to publicly pass along my appreciation."
Metal thieves commonly target remote or unoccupied locations and attempt their crimes at times when homeowners are away from home. Residents are asked to stay alert and report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Look, listen and let someone know.
Metal theft prevention continues to be part of the Washoe County Sheriff's Office ongoing commitment to public safety and security. The following tips from the Staying Safe page of WashoeSheriff.com will help protect against metal theft:
- Secure foundation openings in the crawl space of your house with a good hasp and padlock.
- If possible, build a small chain link fence or cage enclosures around the outside portions of your commercial fixtures, heating and cooling systems.
- Don't store scrap metals outside, or within view.
- Contact local law enforcement if you see any suspicious activity.
- Check your business and residential properties regularly.
- Keep a close eye on your irrigation systems and on vacant homes and businesses in your neighborhood.
For more safety tips, visit the Staying Safe page at WashoeSheriff.com.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.