Valley Center Computer Thefts Similar to Encinitas School Burglaries

As the Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the theft of computers from Encinitas-area schools within the past month, a similar burglary was reported in Valley Center Saturday night.

Dozens of iPads and laptop computers have been reported stolen from four elementary schools in Encinitas and Solana Beach since Dec. 30, with the thieves breaking into classrooms and stealing the computers from locked cabinets. Although deputies were quick to respond to activated burglar alarms, no suspects were found.

A similar case was reported at Oak Glen High School in Valley Center Saturday night, when deputies were sent to the school to investigate a report of unusual noises coming from the campus around 10:20, according to Sgt. Joe Ellis.

Deputies searched the school with the aid of a canine unit and found a fence that had been broken. Inside the school was an unlocked classroom door, where it was determined that approximately 30 iPads had been stolen, according to Ellis. The value of the stolen iPads was estimated at $15,000.

No suspects were found during the search.

Anyone with information about the thefts may be eligible for a $1,000 reward by calling Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.