Serial "window swiper" arrested by Mesa Police
On
January 24, 2008 Mesa Police arrested Michael B.
Walter, 27, for Burglary in the 3rd Degree. Walter
is responsible for at least 16 commercial burglaries
throughout the East Valley that have resulted in
over $100,000 in loss of property and damage.
Walter admitted to Mesa Police he would enter
through a window of the business and use a "unique"
window removal assembly method in every incident.
This unique method would not activate any alarms
that may have been in place at the business. In some
burglary incidents, Walter would leave the window to
make it seem as if no one had disturbed the area.
The $100,000 in loss and property damage includes
stolen checks, completed purchase order forms,
electronic items and cash. In some cases Walter
would have an accomplice and has taught his method
of operation to other individuals.
Mesa Police believe there are several unreported
business victims who have been burglarized within
the past two years by Walter. The business may not
know where the point of entry and/or exit was due to
Walter's method of operation.
In all reported cases there were no surveillance
cameras.
Mesa Police want to remind business owners
and/or employees of a few crime prevention tips.
- Do not keep cash and/or checks in a visible
area. Make sure it is placed in a secured/locked
area.
- Keep ALL your important business files in a
secured location (i.e. completed purchase order
forms).
- Make sure the entire area of your business
is kept well lit, especially by any place
someone can enter and exit.
(Photo is of Michael Walter.)
