Since late December, police have received more than 40 reports of vehicle battery thefts citywide, with thieves primarily targeting batteries from trucks, trailers and heavy equipment.
During a recent theft on March 13, 2018, thieves stole multiple batteries from school buses, resulting in thousands of dollars of damage to the buses and interrupting their daily service.
“These battery thefts are occurring in quiet industrial areas across the city," says Det. Michael Dreilich with West Division. "Thieves appear to be most active in the overnight hours and on weekends when businesses are closed or very few staff are present."
An older model, white Ford F350/450 regular cab, dually truck was captured on surveillance footage at several of the theft locations; investigators believe it may be involved in the series. The truck is described as having amber running lights on the roof and a flat deck with wooden sides and lower clearance lights. The truck also has writing on the driver’s side door. A photo of the truck is included below.
To prevent the theft of batteries, investigators are advising businesses to make note of any suspicious activity and report it to police. Ensuring properties are well-lit, locking compounds after hours, installing intrusion alarms and surveillance cameras and/or hiring onsite security are a few other recommended ways to deter thieves.
Anyone who has information about these thefts or the suspect vehicle is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm