Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – The theft of building materials from the Presque Isle Snowmobile Club last September remains under investigation, with police hoping the public can help bring the case to a close.
“Officers of the Presque Isle Police Department continue to investigate the burglary of the Presque Isle Snowmobile Club. The burglary was discovered by club members during the afternoon of Sept. 8 and reported directly to the police,” said Officer Kevin Reed, who, along with Sgt. Mark Barnes, responded to the scene to investigate.
The items reported stolen were building materials that were to be used in the reconstruction of the group’s clubhouse.
The building was destroyed by fire a year ago but through hard work and determination, club members had begun the process of rebuilding when the items were taken from the property located near Aroostook State Park.
“The stolen windows and materials were being stored in a building near the clubhouse construction site. This building is used to store the club’s large trail groomer. The building is locked,” said Reed.
Investigators believe the individuals who committed the crime used either a key or an automatic garage door opener to access the building, as there were no signs of forced entry.
“Information gained during the course of this investigation has revealed numerous leads, which are being investigated at this time. Several persons of interest have been investigated and interviewed,” said Reed.
In an effort to bring this case to a close, hopefully through arrest, the police are asking for the public’s help.
“At this time, the PIPD is looking for assistance from the public to bring to justice the individual(s) responsible for this burglary. Investigators believe that given the type and sizes of the windows stolen, coupled with the specific use of the stolen materials for log home construction, that citizens will be able to lead police to the identification and recovery of the stolen items and the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible,” said Reed.
Police are releasing a list of the stolen items, hoping the public can provide additional leads that will result in an arrest. Missing building materials include:
• 10 Simpson H10-2 Hurricane Ties;
• Eight boxes of 10-inch Log Boss log home screws (250 piece);
• 384 10.5 ounce tubes of harvest wheat conceal caulking;
• 109 3/8-inch by 3/8-inch by 25-foot rolls of gray foam strip;
• 15 3/4-inch by 3/4-inch by 15-foot rolls of gray foam strip;
• 56 1/2-inch by 6-inch lag screws with washers;
• 36 1/2-inch by 8-inch lag screws with washers;
• 100 1/2-inch by 10-inch lag screws with washers;
• Two 6-inch by 50-foot sheets of aluminum flashing; and
• Backer rod roller.
“All 15 windows stolen are described as Anderson Smart Sun 400 Series, Low-E style, vinyl-clad tinted glass. The exterior framing is Terratone (a brownish gray color) in color and the interior framing is pine,” said Reed.
The windows are described as follows:
• Three DPH-410310 Terratone Smart Sun Glass, tilt-wash large picture windows;
• Eight TW-18310 Terratone Smart Sun Glass, double-hung, tilt-wash windows; and
• Three TW-2120210 Terratone Smart Sun Glass, tilt-wash windows.
Items taken were from Ward Cedar Log Homes and would fit similar structures. Reed said the materials were valued at over $10,000 and would not be something easily hidden.
“We’re hoping someone’s seen new construction since September – a new window installed. Anything out of the ordinary that you’ve noticed that you think we should check out,” said Reed.
Reed said the club has a long history of being a ‘good neighbor,’ with the clubhouse serving as a gathering spot for various community activities throughout the year.
He’s hoping people in the community can now serve as good neighbors and help solve the case.
“The clubhouse was destroyed by fire last January. The club was formed in 1968 to promote the growth and sport of snowmobiling. The original clubhouse was constructed in 1985 in order to further promote sportsmanship. The club currently has over 150 individual and family members and over 45 business members,” said Reed. “The club regularly takes part in activities that promote community growth, including events for area youth,” said Reed.
Anyone with information is asked ton contact the PIPD.
“Citizens with information should call 764-4476. Please advise the dispatcher of the nature of the call and ask to speak with or leave a message for me. Callers may remain anonymous,” said Reed.
