Effingham, Ill – Effingham Police received a report of a burglary which had just occurred at TA Truckstop, 1702 W. Evergreen Avenue, on Thursday, February 1st at approximately 2:12 A.M. The suspects allegedly gained access into the locked Verizon department by removing a lock from the door.
After an initial investigation by Bureau of Patrol, it was determined that eleven cellular phones valued at $7100.00 were stolen from the Verizon store within the TA Truckstop. Two suspects, Michael A. Kiser, 51, and Jacob L. Thompson, 23, both from Louisville, Kentucky, drew suspicion shortly after 3:00 A.M. during a routine traffic stop conducted by Vandalia Police Department.
After arresting both men on local charges, Vandalia Officers and Fayette County Sheriff’s Deputies searched the vehicle. During the search, they discovered numerous cellular phones and a plethora of assorted items which they suspected were stolen.
Fayette Deputies contacted Effingham Police, and Effingham Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations Detectives furthered the investigation into the suspected stolen items.
At approximately 9:16 A.M., Bureau of Communications received a report from Hampton Inn and Suites, 1305 N. Keller Drive, of a burglary which had occurred to a linen storage room at the hotel the previous evening.
A mini fridge valued at $135.00 and bulk linens valued at $90.00 were discovered stolen.
The suspects gained entry into the room by prying an electronic door open.
The door sustained approximately $900.00 damage. Detectives continued their investigation into both burglaries, ultimately charging Kiser and Thompson with two counts of burglary each (one Class 2 Felony and one Class 3 Felony each). Both men are being held on separate, unrelated charges at Fayette County Jail, and will be formally charged at a later date in Effingham County.
The investigation is on- going, and more charges could be anticipated, pending review by Effingham County State’s Attorney.
“Prompt reporting by concerned citizens of the community and excellent information-sharing between Law Enforcement agencies were keys to bringing such a swift resolution to this case,” praised Deputy Chief Danny Lake.
Any individual with information about these or any other crime is encouraged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at 217-347-6583 for cash rewards up to $1,000.
Via Effingham Police Department
We are currently working on receiving mugshots of both suspects, will update accordingly.