University News

Arrests Made in Theft of Letters

August 16, 2016

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MACOMB, IL -- Three nonstudents have been arrested in connection with the theft of four letters that were stolen sometime overnight Aug. 9 from the Western Illinois University grand entrance sign at Lafayette Street and University Drive. The letters have not been recovered.

According to OPS Director Scott Harris, the department conducted an investigation based on tips received regarding the thefts. The four letters are valued at approximately $3,300 (original estimate was placed at $1,500).

Jacob E. Trotter, 20, of Machesney Park, Jacob C. Robbins, 20, of Machesney Park, and Jackson McNamara, 21, of Rockford, were arrested Friday, Aug. 12 on a McDonough County warrant by Winnebago County law enforcement officers for theft of government property and criminal damage of government property [these arrests will be included in the Aug. 17 OPS Report].

"This was a group effort among OPS, the Macomb Police Department, the McDonough County Sheriff's Department and Macomb Area Crimestoppers. A Crimestoppers tip and further investigation led to the arrest of the suspects," Harris said. "We appreciate the support we get from our community and that an individual stepped forward with information. I'd like to commend the work of the officers at the Office of Public Safety for their work in solving this crime quickly."

Individuals with knowledge of the whereabouts of the letters should contact the Office of Public Safety or the Macomb Area Crime Stoppers at (309) 836-3222. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=686 or by texting CRIMESTOP and the tip to CRIMES (274637).

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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