Reward offered in burglary

Information is being sought by Carson City investigators in the June commercial burglary of an East Carson City business.

Detective Craig Lowe said Thursday that on June 13 someone scaled the side of Production Pattern and Foundry on Fairview Drive, got onto the roof, climbed though an 8-foot-long, 18-inch-wide vent and gained access to the interior of the building.

Once inside, the person disabled the alarm system, cut the power to the building and then stripped the wiring for several of the company's machine's used to powder coat truck parts. Damage to the machinery and loss of revenue exceeded $100,000, said Lowe.

The person also took some tools prior to leaving the business through a door.

A review of alarm company records indicated that the business' alarm was tripped at 3:25 a.m., and then again when the power was cut. But the alarm company opted against calling the authorities because of the early hour, said Lowe.

"Someone had to know the alarm code, had to be familiar with the machines, had to be able to fit down the vent," said Lowe. "In order to do this damage you'd have to have an electrician's knowledge or you'd electrocute yourself. They stripped the wires to all these industrial machines without electrocuting themselves."

Lowe said when the culprit opened the lid to the roof vent, they apparently cut themselves and left a trail of blood on the roof and down the inside of the vent. They also left bloody fingerprints on the keypad to the alarm.

Business owner Arlene Cochran has offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to the prosecution of whoever is responsible.

"Someone's got to know something," said Lowe.

Anyone with information is asked to call Lowe at 887-2020 ext. 41403.

In addition to Cochran's reward offer, Carson City Secret Witness will pay up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals committing crimes. If you have any information call (775) 322-4900. The School Secret Witness number is (775) 329-6666. Or, you can dial 202 from any SBC pay phone for free.

Callers always remain anonymous.

- Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.