Juveniles are suspects in vehicle break-ins

Three juveniles are suspects in a string of vehicle break-ins that took place in Columbia Falls during the early morning hours on June 25-27.

While the Columbia Falls police continue to investigate the case and report finding more items than were reported missing, they feel sure the juveniles they have identified are responsible for vehicle break-ins on Frontage Road, Crescent Drive, Council Bluffs Drive, Fifth Avenue East North and Seventh Avenue East North.

But vehicle break-ins were also reported last week on Railroad Street, Marjorie Street and Sixth Avenue East North. All the vehicles linked to the three juveniles were unlocked. The thieves that entered the vehicle parked on Railroad Street busted out a window.

Many of the stolen items linked to the juveniles were recovered. Items still missing included a laptop computer, several GPS units and several wallets and purses. About $100 was taken, mostly loose change.

Items that have been recovered but are not linked to the juveniles include a camo compound bow with a carrying case, several fishing tackle boxes, a radar detector, a small handheld Nintendo game device, and a small DVD player designed for use in vehicles. Other items mentioned in the police log included stereo equipment and a satellite radio receiver.

Officer Sean Murphy said the juveniles were apprehended after a woman reported seeing them early in the morning carrying some of the stolen property. He said he had been down by the railroad tracks under the North Fork Road viaduct recovering stolen property.

The three juveniles range from eighth grade to 11th grade. Charges are pending and will likely be handled in youth court. The police are still looking into whether additional juveniles may be involved.