Sheriff Investigating Barn Burglary

A southern Illinois sheriff is asking for help solving a couple of theft cases.

Pope County Sheriff Jerry Suits says he went to a Dixon Springs home on July 7 and spoke to the owners, who said someone had entered their new pole barn and taken items valued around $15,000. Those items included a new 60-inch Bad Boy zero-turn mower and a black 6-1/2 x 10-foot trailer with a wooden floor and gate. Other items taken were an air compressor, chain saws, weed eaters, blowers, several electric or battery-operated drills and saws, hand tools, motorcycle helmets, and clothing.

So far, the investigation has revealed that a black Jeep with a chrome grill was seen in the area before and after the burglary.

Sheriff Suits also says a coin collection and diamond bracelet have also been stolen from a Pope County home within the last few weeks. They are valued around $3,000.

Anyone with information about either of these crimes should call the Sheriff's Department at 618-683-4321. Tips will be kept confidential.