Vehicle thefts were a problem in November for Riley County.
Riley County Police Department Lt. Luke Breault told county commissioners Monday morning there was an upward trend last month.
“We had about 40 vehicle burglaries that were reported, which was a number that we hadn’t seen in some time,” he said. “The good thing that went along with that, though, is that we were able to develop a group of suspects.”
One of those suspects, 20-year-old Barrett Stokes, is one KMAN first reported Friday.
“We publicly stated that we’re out looking for him and that he’s wanted and believed to be armed, as well,” he said. “There was a firearm that was stolen in one of the burglaries, so we’re looking for that individual.
“At this time he’s still at-large.”
Breault also reiterated previous statements from the RCPD pertaining to increased police presence at public events.
“We’ve taken it upon ourselves to increase the measures of security that we may not have done in the past,” he said. “It’s an unfortunate set of circumstances in world events that have led us to examine and take these things on.”
In other items, budget and finance officer Johnette Shepek said there will be a public hearing for 2015 budget amendments on Dec. 28, though she also reassured commissioners the amendments — if approved — will not alter the mill levy.
Commissioners also reviewed appointment letters for John Osarczuk and Tom Taul to the Riley County Planning Board/Board of Zoning Appeals and Resolutions.
Finally, commissioner Robert Boyd announced an open house at the Manhattan Regional Airport for “Candy Canes & Airplanes” on Saturday from 1-3 p.m.
“Santa will make his official Manhattan appearance,” Boyd said.
Boyd said the event will also benefit the Warrior Transition Battalion at Fort Riley.
