Vehicle burglary suspect caught

RATHDRUM - A 16-year-old Rathdrum boy has admitted to police that he was involved in multiple vehicle burglaries in Rathdrum over the weekend.

The owner of one of the vehicles in the 8600 block of Arizona Street found that the suspect had left behind his cell phone, which was turned over to police.

Another burglary was reported in the 8600 block of California Street - two blocks from the home on Arizona.

"The boy gave a statement to the officer admitting to entering vehicles looking for cigarettes," said Rathdrum Police Chief Kevin Fuhr.

The suspect was charged with one count of unlawful entry of a vehicle and minor in possession/consumption of alcohol.

"When he was being interviewed, it was evident that he was slightly impaired and he admitted to drinking," Fuhr said.

Additional charges may be filed. The boy, who is on probation, has not been arrested.

Police suspect there were other victims in the neighborhood because some property from the boy hasn't been identified. Those in that area who have items missing from their vehicle should call Rathdrum Police at 687-0711 to identify the property.

Fuhr said the boy told an officer that he couldn't recall how many or specific vehicles he entered late Saturday and early Sunday.

The boy does not live in the neighborhood, but was staying with a friend who does. The boy is the lone suspect.

Nothing was missing from the vehicle on Arizona in which the suspect's cell phone was left behind. A wallet with a small amount of money and credit and identification cards was stolen from the vehicle on California.

Both vehicles were unlocked.