October 7, 2024 |
Photo – RPD patch and badge – Courtesy RPD
The Rawlins Police have arrested Highland Hills resident Linken Schoenfeld for entering, and stealing from, multiple vehicles in his neighborhood.
A little before 6:00 am on Thursday, October 3rd, Rawlins police began receiving reports of burglaries to motor vehicles in the Highland Hills section of the city.
Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said after arriving in the area, officers found that many vehicles were illegally entered over the course of the night.
At 11:00 am on Thursday morning, the Rawlins Police Department announced that a suspect had been arrested. Using residents’ security camera footage, Chief Ward said officers were able to identify Linken Schoenfeld as the perpetrator. The suspect lives in the area.
Chief Ward did not disclose the suspect’s age, saying only that Schoenfeld is an adult.
The chief also said Schoenfeld is known to Rawlins police.
Chief Ward said evidence indicates that the suspect illegally entered over 30 different vehicles in the Highland Hills neighborhood. The Rawlins police chief said the suspect stole a variety of items, including keys, cash, and weapons.
Because Schoenfeld’s alleged crimes are felonies, Chief Ward said the exact charges he will face is up to the Carbon County Prosecutor’s Office. However, the chief said the suspect is likely to face multiple felony burglary charges.
Chief Ward was unwilling to speculate on why Schoenfeld allegedly burglarized over 30 vehicles, but he mentioned that drugs and alcohol typically play a role in 90% of crimes.
Chief Ward said home security cameras owned by Highland Hills residents played a crucial role in quickly identifying Schoenfeld as the suspect.
The chief emphasized that security cameras are an excellent tool for protecting against burglary. Additionally, Chief Ward advised that an even simpler way to prevent burglary is to avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle and always lock your doors.
Chief Ward also strongly advised residents not to leave firearms in their vehicles.
The chief thanked the residents who reported the burglaries and supplied the Rawlins Police Department with video evidence.
Chief Ward said he suspects there may be more victims and encouraged anyone who believes they had something stolen, or their vehicle illegally entered, last Thursday to call the Rawlins Police Department at 328-4530.
