Burglaries in Maben under investigation

March 12, 2012

By COLLEEN MCCARTHY

Investigators believe there is a connection between the series of burglaries and attempted burglaries which have plagued the town of Maben over the last few weeks.
The latest break-in occurred at the General Store of Maben between 11:30 p.m. Sunday and 7 a.m. Monday, Maben Police Officer William Ford said.
The suspect broke the glass front door and stole $50 worth of cigarettes, $100 in rolled coins, $50 in loose coins and a security system valued at $1,000.
Ford said it appears the suspect also unsuccessfully attempted to break into Maben Auto Parts.
The incident marks the second time the General Store of Maben has been robbed in recent weeks. Ford said $200 worth of cigarettes, $100 in coins and a security system were stolen Feb. 28. Jim’s Auto Parts was also a victim of the same burglary spree.
“These incidents are definitely connected — the same M.O.,” Ford said.
Ford, who is also a sergeant with the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office, said the two departments are working together to investigate the burglaries. The investigation has produced several suspects and fingerprints will be sent to a crime lab for analysis.
Both the police and sheriff’s department will increase their presence in the area, Ford said.
“We have a good investigation going and we’re working hard to solve these burglaries as quickly as possible,” he said.
The owners of the General Store of Maben are offering a reward to anyone who can provide enough information or evidence to recover the stolen security systems. Anyone with information in connection with these crimes should contact OCSO at 662-323-2421 or the Maben police at 662-263-4212.