A Wood River man is facing multiple charges after allegedly vandalizing and stealing from gaming machines at Grand Island laundromats. The incidents, which occurred in August and September, resulted in significant damage and financial losses.
Key Takeaways
- Brian Petersen, 33, is charged with two counts of theft by unlawful taking and three counts of criminal mischief.
- Three of the charges are felonies due to the value of the theft or damage exceeding $5,000.
- The alleged crimes targeted gaming machines at two Grand Island laundromats.
August Incident
In August, Brian Petersen is accused of vandalizing two gaming machines at a laundromat located at 503 N. Pine St. in Grand Island. According to the Grand Island Police Department (GIPD) Division Chief Dean Elliott, the damage to the machines amounted to approximately $3,000, with about $3,500 stolen.
September Incident
Petersen allegedly committed similar acts in September at the Lucky Duck Laundromat on St. Paul Road. This incident resulted in an estimated $15,000 in damage, requiring the machines to be completely disassembled. However, less than $1,000 was taken from the two machines involved in this incident.
Broader Trend and Investigation
Elliott noted that the GIPD has seen between eight to 10 gaming machines vandalized or stolen from this year. These crimes often occur at 24/7 laundromats, which typically lack constant on-site personnel, making them more vulnerable than establishments like gas stations. Investigators were able to gather sufficient evidence to make an arrest in these specific cases.
Legal Proceedings
Petersen appeared in Hall County Court on Monday, where his bond was set at 10 percent of $10,000. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 8 at 11 a.m.
Sources
- Wood River man facing charges in gaming machine thefts, KSNB.
- Wood River man suspected laundromat gaming machine theft, The Grand Island Independent.
