Sheriff explains how to reclaim stolen property

Cole County deputies continue to work with other agencies that are investigating multiple burglaries in mid-Missouri.

During the investigation, deputies arrested Stephan Whelan and charged him with more than six counts of burglary.

Whelan told investigators the location of thousands of dollars’ worth of stolen property.

Keith Miller lives in one of the houses that was targeted.

“I came home from church, found everything was broken into,” Miller said. “We called the Cole County Sheriff’s Department. They were here very quick and we talked with them, filed a report.”

Miller’s stolen property has not yet been recovered but Cole County Sheriff John Wheeler said there are several things homeowners can do to aid in the recovery of stolen items.

“Go through your house and anything that’s real important to you, try to make a little mark on it,” Wheeler said. “Try to get a serial number off of it or record the make and model.”

Wheeler said even a photograph or video of the stolen property can go a long way toward ensuring its eventual return.