Former University of Missouri employee accused of stealing computers from Ellis Fishel Cancer Center

A former University of Missouri Healthcare driver is charged for stealing computers from the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center.

Victor E. Menzel, 60, faces one count of felony stealing. University of Missouri police (MUPD) arrested Menzel last Monday after his son contacted them about computer equipment that he believed was stolen.

Menzel is accused of passing off at least six stolen laptops, three desktop computers and other parts to his son earlier this month.

His son became suspicious of the items after he asked an unidentified friend to check out the computer equipment, and found active software with MU Healthcare logos on the desktop, according to the probable cause statement.

MU police seized all the computer items, including batteries, computer mouses, adapters, keyboards, printer and a monitor. As of Tuesday, police are still trying to determine the costs of the used items and whether or not any sensitive patient information was compromised.

There is no indication that any of that information was in those computers, said MUPD Capt. Brian Weimer. He added that they are investigating to see if additional items were stolen.

According to court documents, Menzel admitted to stealing the items from MU’s cancer center, but did not indicate what he planned on doing with them.

Assistant prosecutor Corey Carter, who is handling the case, said Menzel faces up to seven years in prison if convicted on felony of stealing.

On Tuesday, a counsel hearing was scheduled in Boone County courthouse. According to the prosecutor, Menzel filed for a public defender but was disqualified because he posted a cash bond of $4,500 last Thursday to get out of jail. That demonstrated that he had financial capability to hire a private attorney.

As of Tuesday evening, no counsel is listed for Menzel. His next court hearing is scheduled for May 7.