Case Update:

Caught on camera suspect Douglas Barlow was charged yesterday with criminal charges of theft & trespassing stemming from his involvement in the theft of electrical wiring from United Electrical in Post Falls . Barlow was arrested on warrants on unrelated charges and booked into the Kootenai County Jail.

Post Falls Detective ’s received at least three citizen tips identifying Barlow as the suspect after media broadcasts showed the man committing the theft and driving a Red Jeep Cherokee as he arrived and left the property. During police questioning, Barlow admitted it was him and his Jeep involved in this case. He claimed he went to United Electrical to steal wire and cut the gates lock with bolt-cutters to gain access.

Post Falls Investigators are grateful to those citizens who provided tips identifying the suspect, helping to solve this crime.

SUBJECT: Theft of Electrical Wire

Date: June 9, 2006

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Detective R. Gunderson 

Police agencies in the area have reported an increase in metals thefts recently. On 05/24/06 shortly after 05:00, security cameras at the Post Falls business, United Electrical, INC. located at 921 E. 3^rd in Post Falls , captured images of a male subject cutting the lock from the entry gate to the yard. The male suspect entering the fenced area and removed in excess of $1,000.00 in electrical wiring. The suspect was driving a maroon JEEP Grand Cherokee which is believed to be a 2001-2002 model year with distinctive vehicle option features; such as a brush guard and sun roof. The vehicle appears to be displaying Washington license plates.

To view the video clip of this metals theft, logon to the Post Falls Police Departments website at www.postfallspolice.com. Anyone with any information about this theft is asked to contact Det. Gunderson at (208) 773-3517. 

Video of Wire Theft  Large file, may take 2-3 min to load with broadband.

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AUTHOR: Detective R. Gunderson