One week, five burglaries

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake police are investigating a series of burglaries reported at the Desert Oasis RV Park on South Yakima Avenue.

There are no suspects, said police Capt. Dave Ruffin.

An investigating officer reported the incidents at the park could be the same person committing the crime.

Police reported five burglaries at the park between Monday and Wednesday nights.

Three burglaries were reported Wednesday night.

During all three incidents, it was reported an unknown suspect entered through the RV windows and rummaged through cupboards and safekeeping areas, police reported.

Items stolen included loose change and an iPod.

Two RVs were found entered Monday night, police reported.

The suspect reportedly gained entry to one RV by prying a window open, police reported. The suspect rummaged through cabinets and spilled oil from a cold fryer. Police noted the suspect may have spilled the oil on their clothes. The suspect reportedly stole a bottle of R&R whiskey.

The suspect entered a second RV by pushing a portable coolant vent inside creating an entry point, police reported. The suspect looked through cabinets, drawers and a closet until finding some loose change.

The suspect took the change but possibly left behind a screwdriver, which police collected as evidence.

Park Owner Mitch Molitor said he’s owned the park for roughly eight years and during that time, only one prior theft was reported. He was surprised when he learned there were five burglaries reported this week because the park is a safe living area.

In response, park ownership and residents have become more communal about their living arrangements. Molitor said residents and management are trying to be more aware of suspicious people and are electing to report suspicious activity quickly. They are talking among themselves and sharing information, he added.

“It will stop,” Molitor said about the incidents.

Anyone with information can contact the police department at 509-766-9230.